Darkside of Social Media on Academic Performance of College Students in Nepal

Abstract

Background: Social media has become an integral part of students’ academic and social lives, offering opportunities for communication, learning, and information sharing. However, excessive use of social media may lead to loneliness, self-presentation pressure, information overload, and social media addiction, which can negatively affect students’ academic performance and overall well-being. Despite the growing prevalence of social media use among Nepalese youth, limited studies have examined its dark side and its impact on academic outcomes. Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to analyze the darkside of social media on academic performance of graduate’s students in Nepal. Design/methodology/approach: The study used an explanatory research approach to analyze the darkside of social media on academic performance of college students in Nepal by employing S-O-B-C Model. Purposive sampling is employed for this study under non-probability sampling technique. Data was collected from 431 respondents using self-administered structured questions through the KOBO toolbox. Subsequently, the data collected were analyzed employing Excel and SmartPLS 4.0. Findings: Loneliness and Self-presentation have significant relationship with   Reduced Academic Performance where Information Overload and Social Media Addiction are mediating variables. Conclusion: This study highlights loneliness and the demand for self-presentation as important drivers, which lead to information overload and, ultimately, social media addiction. The negative consequences include distractions, cyberbullying, negative feedback addiction, and mental health issues. To address these issues, the research suggests measures such as limiting social media use, encouraging mindful engagement, and practicing self-compassion. Keywords: Loneliness, self-presentation, information overload, social media addiction, reduced academic performance