The Influence of Internet Subculture on Civic Values Education in Fujian Province

Background and Aim: This study explores the current development of internet subcultures and their influence on university students' values. It aims to examine how internet subcultures influence students’ national consciousness, social responsibility, and individual behavior, with the ultimate goal of proposing effective strategies for civic values education in higher education institutions under the influence of internet subcultures. As a distinctive and dynamic component of contemporary culture, the internet subculture reflects the growing diversity of social values. University students, as digital natives, are highly active on various online platforms and are in a critical developmental stage where their worldview, outlook on life, and values are still forming and susceptible to external influences. This study focuses on analyzing the specific effects of five popular types of internet subcultures among university students in Fujian Province, offering insights to enhance civic values education in this context. Materials and Methods: This research adopts a combination of literature review, semi-structured interviews, and questionnaires to identify the five most influential internet subcultures among university students in Fujian Province. A multiple regression analysis is conducted to assess the "double-edged" impact of these subcultures on students’ national consciousness, social responsibility, and individual behavior. Based on the findings, the study proposes strategies to improve civic values education in universities in the context of internet subcultures. Results: The study identifies five internet subcultures that are widespread and influential among university students in Fujian Province: Fan culture, Game culture, ACG (Anime, Comic, and Games) culture, Buddha-like/Lying Flat culture, and Live Streaming/Internet Celebrity culture. These subcultures exert both positive and negative influences to varying degrees on students' national consciousness, sense of social responsibility, and individual behavior. The empirical data underscore the pivotal role of internet subcultures in shaping students' civic values. Conclusion: The study concludes by proposing four strategic approaches to address the impact of internet subcultures on civic values education: optimizing the educational environment, innovating teaching methods, strengthening faculty development, and cultivating students’ civic awareness in the digital age. These strategies aim to enhance the effectiveness of civic values education in the context of evolving internet subcultures.