Social Media Usage, Peer Comparison, Gender and Algorithm-Driven Anxiety Among Senior Secondary School Students

Abstract

This study examined the influence of social media usage, peer comparison, and gender on algorithm-driven anxiety among senior secondary school students in Ibadan metropolis, Oyo State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive-correlational research design to determine the relationships and predictive effects among the variables. The population comprised all Senior Secondary School students (SS1–SS3) within Ibadan metropolis, with an estimated population of 49,872 students. A sample of 300 students was selected using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure representation across gender, class level, and school. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of a Social Media Usage Scale, Peer Comparison Scale, and an Algorithm-Driven Anxiety Scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics including independent samples t-test, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, and multiple regression analysis at a 0.05 level of significance using SPSS version 28. The findings revealed a significant gender difference in algorithm-driven anxiety, with female students reporting higher anxiety levels than male students (t = 2.87, p < 0.05). Pearson correlation results indicated significant positive relationships among social media usage, peer comparison, and algorithm-driven anxiety. Multiple regression analysis further showed that social media usage, peer comparison, and gender jointly predicted algorithmdriven anxiety, accounting for 48% of the variance (R² = 0.48, p < 0.001). Peer comparison emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by social media usage and gender. The study concludes that increased social media engagement and peer comparison tendencies significantly contribute to algorithm-driven anxiety among adolescents, with female students being more vulnerable. The study recommends the promotion of digital literacy, healthy social media habits, and school-based psychological interventions to help students manage anxiety associated with algorithmically curated social media environments.

Kikelomo Adeduntan & Lawrence A. Okesiji. Social Media Usage, Peer Comparison, Gender and Algorithm-Driven Anxiety Among Senior Secondary School Students. Ibadan Journal of Educational Studies, 23(2), 88-96.