Gender Differences in the Impact of Social Media Misinformation on Jagannath University Students' Mental Well-being: Exploring Confidence Level, and Media Literacy Needs for Identifying Misinformation

Authors/ Publisher: Zarin Tasnim

Abstract:

Social media is one of the most common sources of information in the digital age, especially among university students; however, this platform is also used to spread information that can cause physical or even mental harm due to its overall consequences. This study examines whether gender influences the impact caused by misinformation encountered on social media platforms, focusing on the mental well-being of Jagannath University students in Dhaka, and also evaluates students’ confidence in identifying misinformation. A quantitative research design was used, surveying 200 undergraduate and postgraduate students from various departments at Jagannath University, Dhaka. Data were gathered through printed questionnaires and analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics. The results reveal a significant gender disparity in the perceived impact of misinformation on mental health, with females more vulnerable than males. While many students expressed interest in training on how to detect and avoid misinformation, the actual demand was lower than expected. The findings suggest that gender-sensitive awareness programs, psychological support services, and media literacy initiatives should be implemented to help identify and address the effects of misinformation.

Keywords: Confidence level, Misinformation, Media literacy, Social media, University students’