The Nature of Social Relationships in light of Using Social Media among Residents Students

Authors

Kerabia Amina
University of Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaghanem, Algeria.

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the nature of social relationships in light of social media, using Facebook as a model. The researcher intentionally selected a sample of female students residing at the Belarbi Abdelkader Dormitory in the city of Mostaganem and relied on interviews as a data collection tool while supervising master students. The study demonstrated that social media plays a significant role for these students, as most of them use Facebook primarily to communicate with family and friends, work on academic research, stay updated on each other's news and send messages. The results also indicated that Facebook has transformed social relationships from reality to the virtual world in that it provided students with the opportunity to renew friendships and maintain communication with their families and relatives. Moreover, the study revealed that using this platform enhances and supports the virtual social relationships of the participants. However, extensive use has also led them into a world of internet addiction and social isolation.