EXPLORATION OF THE PATTERN OF USE OF WHATSAPP GROUP BY YOUTHS: A STUDY OF AMIABLE CYONITE NATIVITY JOS

ABSTRACT This study titled “Exploration of the Pattern of Use of WhatsApp Group by Youths: A Study of Amiable CYONITE Nativity Jos” examines how members of the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON) in Jos use WhatsApp groups for communication and social engagement. The study seeks to determine the frequency, purpose, and engagement levels of members; analyse the influence of WhatsApp on social relationships; identify its advantages and disadvantages; and explore its link with digital distractions. The population comprises active members of the Amiable Catholic Youth Organization in Jos, representing diverse backgrounds. A qualitative research design was adopted, using purposive sampling to select fifteen participants. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and observations, and analysed using thematic analysis based on Clarke and Braun (2019). Findings reveal that WhatsApp has become a central communication platform among Catholic youths, primarily used for religious updates, fellowship coordination, and social interaction. While the platform enhances information sharing, unity, and participation, overreliance on virtual communication reduces physical interactions and sometimes causes misunderstandings. Benefits include easy coordination of church programmes and moral support, while drawbacks involve time wastage, irrelevant content, and digital distraction. The study also found that excessive WhatsApp usage contributes to reduced concentration during studies and worship.Grounded in the Uses and Gratifications and Media Dependency Theories, the study concludes that WhatsApp fosters spiritual and social connection among Catholic youths but also poses challenges of distraction and overdependence. It recommends the establishment of digital communication guidelines, digital literacy training, and balanced participation between online and offline activities to enhance positive engagement.