Social networks and value system of students

Abstract

Purpose: Technologies in general and media in particular influence their audience through their form and content. There are many studies about the role and effect of classic media on values change; however, few studies have explored new emergent media such as social networks. The aim of this descriptive-survey research is to investigate how time spent on social network and social network addiction is related to value system of students. Methodology: Statistical population consisted of all students studying at higher education institutes in Bojnord during 2015-16 academic years. A sample of 229 students was selected using cluster-random sampling. Data was analyzed using SPSS 19 software. Findings: Findings revealed a negative significant relationship between the use of social network and social network addiction on the one hand, and the value system of students on the other hand. This finding held true for religious, cultural, political and social components of the value system, except for economic component. Discussion: According to these findings, higher education should pay greater attention to promoting media literacy of students.