Threats of Social Media among Ethiopian Youths

The objective of this research is to analyze the age and gender dynamics of youths regarding risks and threats through social networks. The study also explores the risks and threats of youths on social networks through assessing their attitudes towards risks; prominent threats; and risk aversion strategies. Online communication has become a centerpiece in the social life of youths. They outnumber adults in their use of communication technologies, such as social networking sites. “Social networks” are online communities that give opportunities to connect with, or provide resources to, clients, colleagues, family, and friends who share common interests. The sample size comprises (n=252) questionnaires; and the data is collected and analyzed keeping in view the age and gender dynamics and the result is presented. The findings pertaining to risks and threats on social networks reveal that most of the Ethiopian youths take social networks as a fun and little bit risky. Web filters and blocking content is the most frequently used mechanism to promote safety and risk. But, the most used mechanism for ensuring young people’s safety online (blocking and filters) is least trusted as effective. The majority of young people waste their time by using social networks excessively. Teenagers in Ethiopia bully their peers more than older youth, while online, females bully more than males. Text messages are the most common form of cyberbullying that young people experience, and most of them bully once every two years. Most young people either block or ignore strangers on social media in order to avoid potential threats.