Social Media, Youth Identity, and Household Stability: Insights From Sociology of Religion

The pervasive influence of social media on youth identity formation has generated both opportunities and challenges for household stability, particularly within socioreligious contexts. This study examines how engagement with social media platforms shapes the self-concept, values, and relational behaviors of adolescents, and how these changes intersect with family cohesion and spiritual development. The growing concern that social media exposure may contribute to identity conflicts, moral ambiguity, and weakened family bonds has been addressed. This study aims to analyze the sociological and religious dimensions of the impact of social media on youth by exploring how digital interactions influence familial relationships, religious adherence, and social norms. Despite extensive research on youth and digital media, a gap exists in the integration of sociological perspectives with religious frameworks to understand household dynamics. Using symbolic interaction and social identity theory, this study investigates the mechanisms through which online interactions affect self-perception, peer influence, and parental authority. While social media can enhance social connectedness and access to information, excessive or unmonitored engagement often leads to value conflicts, diminished parental influence, and household relational tension. The study concludes that fostering digital literacy, promoting faith-informed guidance, and encouraging open family communication are essential for mitigating risks and supporting the development of youth identity. Recommendations include integrating socioreligious education with digital engagement strategies to strengthen household stability