Social Media and Its Impact on Social Values Among University Students – Facebook as a Model (A Field Study on Students of the Faculty of Education, University of Zintan, Academic Year 2025–2026)

Abstract

The study aimed to explore the impact of social media usage, specifically Facebook, on the social values of students at the Faculty of Education, University of Zintan, for the academic year (2025–2026). The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, using a questionnaire as the main tool for data collection from a sample of 154 students. The results showed that Facebook usage is characterized by continuity and intensity, as most students spend a considerable amount of time daily on the platform. Social interaction, such as chatting and reading posts, dominates this usage, in addition to entertainment purposes. In contrast, there was a relative weakness in utilizing the platform for educational and developmental purposes, including following educational pages and joining study groups. The findings also revealed that the effects of using the platform are dual; negative effects were recorded at a high level, focusing on value‑based, cultural, and religious aspects, such as neglecting religious duties and being influenced by foreign cultures. Meanwhile, positive effects appeared at a moderate level, mainly in facilitating communication and developing digital skills.