Social media has become a dominant force in the lives of Ghanaian youth, shaping how they interact, express themselves, and perceive the world. While these platforms offer various benefits, such as connecting people and providing a space for creativity, they also pose significant challenges.
Among the most concerning are the tendencies of some young people to engage in harmful behaviors like online cursing, scamming, spreading nudity, and undermining cultural values. These issues reflect broader societal concerns about the impact of social media on the moral and cultural fabric of Ghana. Social media has now become the new Mecca where Ghanaian youth especially visit periodically to engage in negatives.
Online Cursing and Verbal Abuse
One of the alarming trends among Ghanaian youth on social media is the quickness to resort to cursing and verbal abuse. In the digital age, disputes and disagreements that might have been resolved calmly in face-to-face interactions now often escalate online. Social media platforms provide a sense of anonymity, emboldening individuals to use harsh language and personal attacks without fear of immediate consequences. This behavior not only degrades the quality of public discourse but also fosters a culture of disrespect and intolerance. Such actions can have serious emotional and psychological effects on those targeted, contributing to a more toxic online environment.
Scamming and Online Fraud
The rise of social media has also seen an increase in scamming and fraudulent activities. Some Ghanaian youth have turned to these platforms to exploit others financially, using various schemes to deceive people. These scams can range from fake investment opportunities to impersonating legitimate businesses or individuals. This trend not only harms the victims financially but also erodes trust within the community. The prevalence of online scams perpetuates a stereotype of dishonesty, which can tarnish the reputation of Ghanaian youth both locally and internationally.
Spreading Nudity and Inappropriate Content
Another disturbing trend is the spread of nudity and inappropriate content on social media. Some young Ghanaians use these platforms to share explicit images or videos, often seeking attention or validation. This behavior not only violates community guidelines on many platforms but also undermines the moral values that are central to Ghanaian culture. The normalization of such content can have adverse effects on younger audiences, if not already done harm to them. Now, SHS students feel comfortable sharing their nudes online and see no fault with that.
Undermining Cultural Values
Social media has also played a role in undermining traditional Ghanaian cultural values. The exposure to global content has influenced some youth to adopt behaviors and attitudes that conflict with their cultural heritage. While cultural exchange can be enriching, it can also lead to the erosion of local traditions and customs. For instance, the pressure to conform to certain beauty standards or lifestyles seen on social media can result in a loss of cultural identity and self-worth. Furthermore, the emphasis on individualism and instant gratification often found on social media conflicts with the communal and respectful nature of Ghanaian culture.
Conclusion
The negative effects of social media on Ghanaian youth are a growing concern. The tendencies towards online cursing, scamming, spreading nudity, and undermining cultural values highlight the darker side of these platforms. While social media offers numerous opportunities for connection and growth, it is crucial for parents, educators, and community leaders to guide young people in using these tools responsibly. Encouraging digital literacy, fostering respect, and promoting cultural pride can help mitigate these negative impacts and ensure that social media is used in a way that benefits rather than harms society.
Note: The Mecca referred to here is a figurative expression, which is contextual to the story, not the physical Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
Source: Edwin Kobina Coleman
