The Role of Social Networks in Political Awareness and Online Political Participation (Case Study: Students of Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz Branch)
Keywords:
Political awareness, students, social networks, online political participationAbstract
This study, with a focus on political participation, aims to assess and understand its relationship with political awareness in the online sphere. Online political participation is a significant issue that has gained attention with the expansion of new social networks. This research is descriptive-analytical in nature and applied in purpose, examining the role of social networks in political awareness and online political participation among students at the Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz Branch. The sample size consisted of 380 individuals selected through simple random sampling. A questionnaire comprising 17 items was developed. The reliability coefficient of the scale was calculated using Cronbach’s alpha method and found to be 77%. The findings of the study indicate that cyberspace has a moderate impact on individuals’ political tendencies, behaviors, and participation. Furthermore, individuals use virtual space primarily for obtaining political news and information, while the least usage is related to encouraging participation in city council elections. Most individuals express no desire to participate in presidential, parliamentary, or city council elections and do not use social networks for political news and information at all. Regarding the form of political activity, whether active or passive, the majority of individuals show no inclination toward active political participation. This may reflect a form of disillusionment with active political engagement and direct involvement in such activities. In addition, the tendency toward peaceful political participation is higher than toward non-peaceful participation. Most respondents also believe that social networks significantly facilitate the exchange of information and political discussion, freedom of expression, and political communication among citizens.
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