EFFECTIVENESS OF INFORMATION EDUCATION COMMUNICATION PACKAGE REGARDING SOCIAL NETWORK ON KNOWLEDGE AND LIFESTYLE CHANGES AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS IN CHENNAI

Elango Ramakrishnan, Fabiola M. Dhanaraj, Venkatesh Madan Kumar, Vijay Anand S, Raja M4, Sinimol R.P

Abstract

Background: Social networks play an integral role in communication and information exchange among college students, influencing academic collaboration, social interaction, and lifestyle behaviors. However, their excessive use is linked to addiction, mental health issues, and unhealthy lifestyle changes. Despite awareness of these risks, knowledge alone often does not translate into positive behavioral modification. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an Information Education Communication (IEC) package in improving knowledge and lifestyle related to social network use among college students. Methods: A quantitative true experimental design with pre-test-post-test control groups was employed involving 51 college students during the pilot study. The IEC package was delivered as a 30-45 minute lecture supplemented with PowerPoint presentations covering social network risks, addiction, and lifestyle modification. Knowledge and lifestyle changes were assessed using standardized questionnaires before and four weeks after intervention. Statistical tests including paired t-tests and correlation analysis were applied to evaluate the effectiveness. Results: Baseline data showed majority of students had inadequate knowledge (70.6%) and unhealthy lifestyles (60.8%). Post-intervention, knowledge scores significantly improved (mean difference = 2.73, p < 0.001), with 66.7% achieving moderately adequate knowledge levels. Lifestyle scores also showed statistically significant improvement, though an unexpected increase in unhealthy lifestyle patterns was observed. A significant negative correlation between knowledge and lifestyle was found pre- and post- intervention.  Conclusion: The IEC package effectively enhanced knowledge about social networks among college students but had mixed effects on lifestyle behaviors. Knowledge improvement alone may not suffice for sustained lifestyle changes, highlighting the need for multifaceted interventions combining education with behavioral support and motivation. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to better translate awareness into healthier lifestyle adoption.