Examining the Role of Twitter in Shaping Political Polarization and Political Efficacy

Abstract

This research is essential as it provides a deeper understanding of how social media, particularly Twitter, influences the political attitudes of young individuals, specifically in South Punjab. Given the increasing reliance on digital platforms for political discourse, the findings shed light on Twitter's dual role in promoting political engagement and polarization. The objective of this research is to analyze the effect of Twitter on polarization and the efficacy of the youth of South Punjab in political processes. Political polarization is the division of political parties in terms of beliefs and ideologies, while political efficacy is people's faith in the political system. In the present study, the research design adopted was a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 180 respondents between 18 and 35 years old. The findings showed that the usage of Twitter has a positive and significant influence on political polarization (β = 0. 60, p < 0. 001) and political efficacy (β = 0. 55, p < 0. 001). These results accord with prior studies that have argued that Twitter generates echo chambers, which strengthen polarization. Further, the micro-blogging nature of Twitter also increases users' level of political self-efficacy since they can directly interact with political messages and politicians. The study contributes to the literature by highlighting the dual role of Twitter in shaping political attitudes, with both positive and negative implications for democratic engagement.