The Impact of New Media on Interpersonal Communication: The Role of Social Media Platform and Visual Content in University Students’ Engagement

Aida Suhana Abdul Hamid (), Wan Nor Hidayah Wan Afandi and Azfa Izzah Roslan
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Aida Suhana Abdul Hamid: Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia
Wan Nor Hidayah Wan Afandi: Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia
Azfa Izzah Roslan: Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia

A chapter in Proceedings of the International Conference on Cross- Disciplinary Academic Research 2025 - Track 2 Advances in Business & Economics, Social Science, Communications & Media (ICAR-T2 2025), 2026, pp 428-440 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This study explores the influence of new media, particularly social media, on interpersonal communication among university students. The rapid growth of digital platforms has redefined how individuals form connection, exchange information, and construct meaning. By drawing upon Complexity Theory which explains how interconnected elements in a system interact in dynamic, non-linear ways leading to unpredictable and emergent outcomes, this research uses the theory to understand how small changes is user behavior can create large scale effects in digital communication, and relevant empirical studies, this research explores how interactivity and media addiction affect communication patterns, user behavior, and psychological well-being. A quantitative survey was conducted with 383 students from Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia (UPTM). The findings suggest significant correlations between new media interactivity and increased social engagement, as well as between media addiction and deteriorating mental health. It is recommended that media literacy and ethical design being implemented as interventions for fostering healthy digital interactions.

Keywords: New media; social media; interpersonal communication; Complexity Theory; higher education (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.2991/978-94-6239-715-6_32

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