THE NEGATIVE IMPACT OF MEDIA AND MENTORSHIP ON THE MORALITY OF YOUTHS
Keywords:
Music, Movies, Decency, MoralityAbstract
Decency and morality are foundational principles guiding human behaviour and social interaction. In recent times, these values face increasing threats from the pervasive influence of media and mentorship, both of which have become significant forces in shaping youth behaviour. This study examines the negative impact of music, films, print media, peer influence, and mentorship on the morality of youths, highlighting their contributions to moral decline and weakened social cohesion. Anchored on Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory (1977) and Gerbner and Gross’s Cultivation Theory (1976), the research explains how repeated exposure to immoral behaviours in media and negative mentorship fosters imitation, desensitisation, and distorted moral perceptions among young people. The study reveal that modern music and movies often glorify violence, sexual immorality, and substance abuse, while sensational journalism, erotic print media, and advertising normalize obscenity and materialism. Social media amplifies peer pressure, reinforcing unrealistic lifestyles and promoting conformity to indecency. Similarly, unethical mentorship, particularly from celebrities and influencers, sustains cycles of moral decay by presenting questionable behaviours as aspirational. These influences collectively contribute to societal challenges, including family disintegration, crime, drug abuse, toxic relationships, and the erosion of cultural and religious values. The study concludes that urgent interventions are necessary to address moral decline in contemporary society. Key recommendations include introducing comprehensive media literacy programs in schools, promoting positive role models, strengthening community-driven initiatives, and formulating research-based media content policies. Strong family and educational guidance, these strategies are crucial for cultivating ethical behaviour, fostering resilience against harmful influences, and sustaining a morally grounded society.
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