Influence of Social Media Security-Oriented Messages on Raising Security Consciousness of Residents in Awka, Anambra State

Josephine Oluchi Onwugbufor

doi:10.59890/ijasse.v3i5.190

Authors

Josephine Oluchi Onwugbufor Department of Mass Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijasse.v3i5.190

Keywords:

Influence, Social Media, Security-Oriented Messages, Raising Security Consciousness, Residents in Awka

Abstract

In the contemporary digital era, social media platforms have emerged as powerful tools not only for communication but also for shaping public consciousness and behavior. This study investigates the influence of social media security-oriented messages on raising the security consciousness of residents in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. In light of rising security concerns, particularly in urban and semi-urban centers, understanding how digital communication impacts citizens' security awareness and response behavior is critical. Social media messages often carry timely alerts, preventive tips, and user-generated content about crimes or suspicious activities. This study examines whether such content contributes to shaping a heightened sense of vigilance and proactive security behavior among residents. Grounded in the Social Cognitive Theory, the study adopts a quantitative research design using structured Likert-scale questionnaires administered to a sample of 300 residents of Awka. The research explores three core objectives: to assess the extent of residents’ exposure to security-oriented messages on social media; to evaluate the influence of these messages on their personal security behavior; and to determine the perceived credibility and responsiveness to such messages. The study reviews empirical and theoretical literature, including communication, behavior change, and digital media theories, to establish a sound academic framework. Findings from this study are expected to offer valuable insights to policymakers, security agencies, and communication professionals on how social media can be strategically deployed as a security awareness mechanism. Furthermore, it contributes to academic discourse on digital media’s role in public safety and behavior change, particularly within the Nigerian socio-cultural context.

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