Internet Usage Patterns and Social Media Engagement Among Youth Aged 18-25 in Cape Town: A Thematic Analysis Over One Year

Internet usage patterns and social media engagement among youth aged 18-25 in Cape Town have been observed to significantly influence their online behaviors and offline interactions. A thematic analysis approach was employed, utilising survey data from 500 participants across various social media platforms over a one-year period. The analysis revealed that approximately 78% of the youth used Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily communication, with a notable increase in video content consumption on these platforms. Youth aged 18-25 in Cape Town are predominantly engaged through social media, with significant growth observed in video sharing activities. Policy makers should consider the role of social media influencers and educational interventions to enhance digital literacy among youth.