EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE BEHAVIOR OF JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

his research aimed to determine the effects of social media on the behavior of junior high school students. Specifically, the study sought to determine the common reason for excessive social media used by students, and to determine the effects of social media on emotional development, social development, character development, and the relationship with the family. This study also aimed to determine the possible impact of social media on the respondent's behavior. The participants of this study were one hundred (100) junior high school students. The method that the researcher used to gather information was the quantitative method. Moreover, the descriptive type was also used to gather reliable information to determine the accuracy of the result. The results show that the respondents most agreed with the statement that there were effects of social media on the behavior of the students. Moreover, the researchers determined that social media has more negative effects on the mental health of students, and it has been proven that social media has a negative impact on emotional development. In conclusion, the social development of the students varies from person to person to gain more friends and widen connections to each other. The researcher recommends raising awareness, preventing, and educating others about how junior high school students' behavior is affected by social media. The researchers intend to take advantage of social media in a responsible way to encourage positive behavior and personal development.