Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the influence of social media on political participation among young adults. The study explores how social media platforms shape the political engagement of the youth population and examines the various factors that contribute to this phenomenon. Through a comprehensive literature review, the thesis identifies key concepts related to social media, political participation, and youth engagement in politics. The research methodology includes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from young adults aged 18-25. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the topic, presenting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, and structure of the thesis. Definitions of key terms are also outlined to establish a common understanding of the concepts discussed in the study. Chapter 2 presents a detailed literature review comprising ten key themes that have emerged in previous research on social media and political participation. This section examines the role of social media in shaping political discourse, mobilizing young voters, and influencing civic engagement. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology employed in the study, including the sampling strategy, data collection methods, and analysis techniques. The chapter provides an in-depth explanation of how the survey and interviews were conducted to investigate the research questions. Chapter 4 presents the findings of the study, highlighting the key trends and patterns observed in the data. The chapter discusses the impact of social media on the political behaviors and attitudes of young adults, as well as the factors that mediate this relationship. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by summarizing the main findings and implications of the study. The chapter discusses the theoretical and practical implications of the research findings and offers recommendations for future research in this area. Overall, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the influence of social media on political participation in young adults. The study provides valuable insights into how social media platforms can be leveraged to enhance youth engagement in politics and promote a more participatory democracy.

Thesis Overview

Research Overview: The project titled "The Influence of Social Media on Political Participation in Young Adults" aims to explore the impact of social media platforms on the political engagement of young adults. In recent years, social media has become a prominent tool for communication and information sharing, particularly among the younger generation. This study seeks to investigate how the pervasive use of social media influences the political behaviors and attitudes of young adults, ultimately shaping their participation in the political process. The research will delve into the various ways in which social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, have transformed the landscape of political communication and engagement. By examining the relationship between social media use and political participation, the study intends to uncover the extent to which young adults are influenced by online content, discussions, and campaigns in forming their political opinions and taking action. Key components of the research will include an analysis of how social media algorithms and echo chambers contribute to the polarization of political discourse among young adults. Additionally, the study will investigate the role of social media in mobilizing young adults for political causes, protests, and voting initiatives. By exploring these dynamics, the research aims to provide insights into the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media on political participation among the youth demographic. Furthermore, the project will consider the implications of social media on civic engagement and the formation of political identities among young adults. By examining the ways in which social media platforms facilitate or hinder meaningful political participation, the study seeks to offer recommendations for policymakers, educators, and social media companies to enhance the democratic engagement of young adults in the digital age. Overall, this research project on "The Influence of Social Media on Political Participation in Young Adults" seeks to contribute to the existing literature on the intersection of social media and politics, particularly focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by young adults in navigating the digital landscape of contemporary political discourse.