Abstract

The rapid expansion of social media platforms has significantly transformed the psychological emotional behavioural and social landscapes of youth across the world. The abstract examines how changing patterns of social media use including content consumption online communication digital expression and virtual engagement influence youth well-being in profound ways. Social media has become deeply embedded in daily routines shaping the lifestyles aspirations identities and relationships of young individuals. On one hand it offers opportunities for creativity digital learning peer support self-expression and global connectivity. On the other hand excessive use contributes to stress anxiety sleep disturbances emotional instability cyberbullying exposure unrealistic comparisons and distraction from academic responsibilities. Youth often navigate between empowerment and vulnerability as they engage in online interactions that trigger social validation fear of missing out and the pressure to p