SOCIAL MEDIA ENCULTURATION OF PRANK CONTENTS AND VIEWERS` MENTAL HEALTH AMONG MCPHERSON UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATES OGUN STATE

Abstract

This study examined the psychological effects of prank-based of social media content on Nigerian viewers, exploring its dual role as entertainment and a potential mental health concern. Using a quantitative types of research with survey approach and questionnaire as an instrument of data collection, data were collected from 397 social media users, predominantly young, educated students, via structured questionnaires. Findings reveal that respondents find prank videos amusing, experience anxiety or emotional distress, with noting risks of desensitization to real-life distress and reporting reduced trust in social interactions. Study further revealed that the use pranks for stress relief, though respondents only view them as comparable to other relaxation methods. Cultural values significantly shape perceptions, with an evidence of opposing public humiliation pranks and significant number of respondents supporting regulation of harmful content. Grounded in Uses and Gratifications and Affective Disposition theories, the study highlights Nigeria’s cultural emphasis on respect as a key moderator of viewer reactions. Despite limitations such as a youth-heavy sample and cross-sectional design, the findings contribute empirical evidence to the global discourse on social media’s mental health impacts, advocating for ethical content creation and platform policies to mitigate harm while preserving pranks’ entertainment value in Nigeria’s digital landscape.