The nexus between social media and ethnic identity: a study of students at Daystar University, Nairobi, Kenya.

Abstract

The relationship between social media and ethnic identity has huge worldwide implications. Social media platforms serve as virtual spaces for people to express and reaffirm their ethnic affinities, whether they are cultural, ethnic, religious, or ideological. It is critical to comprehend how social media platforms contribute to the creation, maintenance, or alteration of ethnic identity as these platforms emerge as important venues for communication and information sharing. One major issue is the presence of online communities that reinforce established ethnic identities. The aim of the current study is, therefore to establish the nexus between social media and ethnic identity amongst a group of students at Daystar University, Nairobi. The study employed social identity theory, behavioral theory, primordialism theory, constructivism theory, ethnosymbolism, and instrumentalism theory. The current research utilizes a descriptive research design and a qualitative research approach to provide a comprehensive understanding of the concept under study. Data was collected using focused group discussions as well as an interview guide employed for primary data collection. Further, key informant interviews were conducted. Results indicate that students join social media for professional development, and it serves as a platform for cultural expression, community building, and identity formation. Moreover, social media is used for content creation and live streams of cultural events in their daily life. The students also use social media to connect with other ethnic members, learn about their own and other cultures, and express their cultural identity. Social media is used to promote ethnic identity by ensuring that in modern society there is a need to preserve culture. The study recommends that universities should implement programs that control the use of social media for social segregation and othering among students.