The Impact of Misinformation on Social Media

Abstract

Abstract Social media platforms serve as hubs of communication and information, yet they also facilitate the rapid spread of misinformation. This study explores how misinformation impacts young adults aged 18 to 30, focusing on three primary variables: social media usage, trust in social media sources, and critical thinking skills. Utilizing the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT), the study employs a quantitative approach, surveying 400 respondents from Bandar Sri Permaisuri, Malaysia. The findings demonstrate strong correlations between the independent variables and susceptibility to misinformation, contributing significantly to the body of communication and media literacy research. This paper further discusses potential educational and technological strategies to mitigate the spread of misinformation and emphasizes the importance of digital literacy among young Malaysians.