THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN SHAPING YOUTH IDENTITY AND SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

The rapid expansion of social media has fundamentally altered the ways in which young people communicate, build relationships, and construct their identities. While social networking platforms provide opportunities for self-expression, education, networking, and community participation, they also present challenges related to mental health, cyberbullying, misinformation, and unrealistic social expectations. This study explores the influence of social media on youth identity formation and interpersonal relationships. Using a qualitative review of recent literature, the paper examines both the positive and negative consequences of social media usage among adolescents and young adults. Findings indicate that social media has become an essential part of modern youth culture, contributing to increased connectivity while simultaneously creating psychological and social risks. The paper recommends digital literacy education, responsible platform use, and supportive family and educational environments to maximize benefits while minimizing adverse effects.