SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE AND AWARENESS OF THE PALESTINIAN ISSUE AMONG ISLAMIC YOUTH IN TURKEY

This study investigates the extent to which Muslim youth residing in Turkey rely on social networks to follow the Palestinian issue, the motives behind their engagement, and the resulting cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects. Adopting a descriptive survey methodology, data were collected electronically from 142 respondents studying in Turkey using a structured questionnaire. Findings indicate that respondents’ confidence in information obtained from social media about the Palestinian issue was moderate, averaging 67.6%. The primary motive for following the issue was its significance, with 63.0% of respondents highlighting its importance. Cognitive effects were most pronounced in raising awareness of threats to Al-Aqsa Mosque, averaging 74.8%, while emotional effects reflected growing concern for the fate of the Palestinian issue (65.2%). Behavioral effects, particularly engaging in discussions and forming opinions about the events, were reported at 67.4%. The study underscores the role of social networks as a vital source of information and engagement for Muslim youth on geopolitical issues, shaping their awareness, emotions, and civic discourse regarding Palestine.