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Privacy: Impact of Social Media—A Study on University Students

Author

Listed:
  • Donatella Marazziti
  • Francesca Diolaiuti
  • Riccardo Gurrieri
  • Manuel Glauco Carbone
  • Roberto Di Quirico
  • Andrea Pozza
  • Federico Mucci

Abstract

The study investigates how social media affects privacy perceptions among university students, combining a historical perspective on privacy with contemporary data on young adults; interactions with digital platforms. An online survey of 219 students (122 women and 97 men) assessed their awareness of social media’s overt and hidden influences on personal decisions and privacy concerns. Statistical analyses included t -tests, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests, χ² tests, and correlation measures. Results highlighted significant gender differences. Women were more aware of social media’s influence (54.9% vs. 38.1% of men) and expressed greater privacy concerns (41.8% vs. 36.1%). These findings emphasize the need for gender-sensitive educational initiatives to improve privacy awareness and inform policies to safeguard user rights. Further research is recommended to explore broader demographics for a comprehensive understanding of social media’s impact on privacy.

Suggested Citation

  • Donatella Marazziti & Francesca Diolaiuti & Riccardo Gurrieri & Manuel Glauco Carbone & Roberto Di Quirico & Andrea Pozza & Federico Mucci, 2026. "Privacy: Impact of Social Media—A Study on University Students," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 72(3), pages 679-686, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:72:y:2026:i:3:p:679-686
    DOI: 10.1177/00207640251379130
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Michael Brown & Carrie Klein, 2020. "Whose Data? Which Rights? Whose Power? A Policy Discourse Analysis of Student Privacy Policy Documents," The Journal of Higher Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 91(7), pages 1149-1178, November.
    2. Carla Palomino-Suárez & Marta Evelia Aparicio García, 2025. "Gender Stereotypes and Their Impact on Social Sustainability: A Contemporary View of Spain," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 14(5), pages 1-16, May.
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