Relational Well-Being of Youth in India and South Africa: Digitalized Realities

This study examines the relational well-being of youth in India and South Africa within the context of rapidly expanding digitalized realities. With the proliferation of smartphones and social media, young people in both countries are navigating complex digital ecosystems that significantly influence their social interactions, sense of belonging, and identity formation. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative data from youth aged 15-24, the research explores how digital engagement impacts relational dynamics such as family cohesion, peer relationships, and community connectivity. The findings highlight both positive and negative outcomes, revealing that while digital platforms can foster support networks and global connections, they also present risks of social isolation, cyberbullying, and fragmented communication patterns. By focusing on how youth negotiate relational well-being in digitalized environments shaped by socio-economic disparities and cultural contexts, this study provides a nuanced understanding of digital inclusion and its implications for youth development. It advocates for youth-centered digital policies and relational frameworks to ensure that technology enhances rather than hinders the relational well-being of young people in these diverse settings.