AMON STUDENTS

This study examined the Relationship Between Socia Media Usage and The Mental Health Outcome Amon Students of University of Benin Living in Ekosodin Community, Benin City. Five research questions were raised to guide this study; What are the predominant patterns of social media usage among University of Benin students in Ekosodin? What is the prevalence and nature of mental health outcomes in this community?. Is there a significant relationship between social media usage and mental health indicators? What factors mediate or moderate this relationship? How can interventions be designed to promote positive mental health in the context of social media use? The target population comprises all undergraduate students of the University of Benin residing in Ekosodin community. According to university records and community estimates, this population is approximately 5,000-7,000 students, drawn from various faculties including Arts, Sciences, Engineering, and Social Sciences. This size ensures statistical power for correlational analyses, consistent with similar studies (e.g., samples of 382-830 in Nigerian research). A multi-stage sampling technique is employed. First, stratified sampling divides the population by faculty (proportional allocation: e.g., 30% Social Sciences). Second, cluster sampling selects hostels or streets in Ekosodin as clusters. Third, simple random sampling chooses participants within clusters using a lottery method or random number generators. This technique ensures representativeness and reduces bias in a dispersed community like Ekosodin. Convenience elements are incorporated for hard-to-reach subgroups, balancing rigor with practicality. The following findings are: the study established a significant association between the intensity of social media use and negative mental health outcomes, particularly symptoms of anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion among students. Students who spent prolonged hours online reported poorer psychological well-being compared with moderate users. Evidence indicated that academic stress and peer influence function as mediating variables that amplify the psychological effects of social media exposure. Students experiencing high academic pressure were more vulnerable to depressive mood patterns linked to online comparison and information overload. Recommendations for the findings are as follows: University authorities should develop structured digital-wellbeing education programmes aimed at promoting responsible social media habits, time management, and awareness of psychological risks associated with excessive.