Social media has become a powerful medium for communication, education, and commerce worldwide, with Bangladesh being no exception.
The increasing prevalence of platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram—particularly among younger demographics—has made social media an indispensable aspect of daily life.
However, this influence is not without its drawbacks.
Social media has also introduced significant challenges in Bangladesh, ranging from mental health issues and privacy concerns to shifts in political discourse and social relationships.
Bangladesh has witnessed a substantial rise in internet and smartphone usage over the past decade.
According to data from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), as of 2023, the country boasts over 130 million internet users, with approximately 45 million of these being active on social media.
Facebook remains the most widely used platform, trailed by YouTube, WhatsApp, and TikTok.
The affordability of mobile internet and smartphones, especially among the 18-34 age group, has fuelled social media's popularity, bringing with it both advantages and challenges.
A digital sting
Excessive social media usage has been closely linked to mental health problems, especially among the youth of Bangladesh.
Studies indicate that social media addiction mirrors the symptoms of substance addiction, such as dependence, withdrawal, and difficulty in cutting down on use despite adverse outcomes.
Social media often encourages users to showcase idealised versions of themselves, sparking a culture of comparison.
This can cause feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and diminished self-worth.
A 2022 study by BRAC University revealed that 70% of Bangladeshi youth experience anxiety stemming from social media, with body image issues and the fear of missing out (FOMO) frequently cited as key triggers.
Constant exposure to curated depictions of success, wealth, and happiness can lead to depression and loneliness among users.
Social media's focus on likes, comments, and follower counts creates a reward-driven system, where users may feel devalued or rejected when engagement falls short.
Bangladesh Association of Psychiatrists (BAP) reported that 45% of adolescent social media users have experienced depressive symptoms due to online interactions.
Cyberbullying has emerged as a significant concern in Bangladesh, with social media providing a platform for harassment, bullying, and hate speech.
Young adults, especially girls and women, are frequently subjected to misogynistic abuse and online harassment.
Rising number of cyberbullying cases
A report by Ain o Salish Kendra, a human rights organisation, found that incidents of online harassment and cyberbullying have doubled since 2020.
One in four women reported facing cyberbullying, which can lead to psychological distress, social withdrawal, and even suicide in extreme instances.
Victims of cyberbullying often suffer academically and socially, as they may skip classes or avoid social interactions.
Anonymity on social media exacerbates this issue, making it challenging for authorities to track and intervene.
Mothership of misinformation
The rampant dissemination of misinformation and fake news is a pressing issue in Bangladesh, where many people rely on social media as their primary news source.
False information can incite confusion, panic, and violence, particularly concerning sensitive topics like religion, politics, and public health.
During election periods, social media becomes a hotbed for politically motivated fake news aimed at swaying public opinion.
In 2018, misleading information and fabricated stories proliferated on social media, contributing to widespread confusion.
A study by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) in Bangladesh revealed that 60% of social media users encountered political misinformation during the last national elections.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the dangers of social media misinformation, with false claims about the virus, vaccines, and treatments spreading widely.
UNICEF reported a 20% increase in vaccine hesitancy in rural areas due to such misinformation, complicating government efforts.
Always being watched
Rising privacy concerns in Bangladesh stem from the vast amount of personal data collected by social media platforms, often without users’ full knowledge or consent.
Social media platforms frequently collect personal details like age, gender, and location.
In 2021, an investigation uncovered Bangladeshi user data being sold on the dark web, leading to identity theft and scams.
Bangladesh's lack of robust data protection laws leaves users vulnerable, with limited recourse against companies that misuse personal data.
The influence of social media on cultural values and norms is evident in Bangladesh, particularly among the younger population. The exposure to globalised content often challenges traditional Bangladeshi customs.
Bitting off and into cultures
The adoption of trends and attitudes observed on social media has led to changes in views on relationships, gender roles, and consumer habits.
Critics argue that these shifts are straining family structures and altering cultural identities.
Social media promotes individualism and materialism, leading many users to prioritise personal gain over communal or familial responsibilities.
Social media can be a significant source of distraction for students, hindering academic achievement.
Constant updates and notifications detract from study time and focus.
Cultural assimilation and erosion
A survey by Dhaka University found that 75% of college students spend over three hours daily on social media, with many admitting it negatively affects their studies.
Teachers have reported declining attention spans and retention rates, which they attribute to social media overuse.
Excessive time spent on social media diminishes engagement in physical activities, contributing to health concerns like obesity and mental health issues. Preference for virtual interactions often leads to social isolation.
Road to remedies
Addressing the detrimental effects of social media requires collaborative efforts from the government, communities, and individuals.
The government should enforce stricter regulations on cybercrime, including cyberbullying and data privacy violations.
A comprehensive data protection policy would protect users’ privacy and hold violators accountable.
Educating users about social media risks and responsible usage through school programmes and community workshops can empower them to navigate online spaces safely.
Promoting screen time limits, offline engagement, and mindful use of social media can improve users’ mental health and well-being.
Schools and communities should offer mental health services to help individuals cope with social media-induced challenges.
Social media companies must collaborate with governments to curb misinformation and offer fact-checking tools to users.
The path forward
While social media has transformed Bangladesh’s communication landscape, it also poses substantial challenges, from mental health issues and misinformation to privacy threats.
A concerted effort to regulate, educate, and promote responsible use can help mitigate these effects, fostering a safer and more balanced online experience.
