Influence of Peer Group and Social Media on Students’ Academic Performance in Organic Chemistry Among Senior Secondary Schools Students in Katsina Local Government Area

This study examines the influence of peer group and social media on students’ academic performance in organic chemistry among secondary schools in Katsina Local Government Area. The research aims to determine how peer interactions and social media usage affect students’ understanding, interest, and performance in organic chemistry. The study was conducted in eight public secondary schools, with a total sample of 200 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data collection was carried out using structured questionnaires and interviews with selected students and teachers to gain deeper insights into the effects of peer influence and social media on academic performance.  Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data analysis were employed. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, were used to analyze the questionnaire responses, while thematic analysis was used to interpret the interview data. The findings revealed that peer group influence significantly affects students' study habits, either positively or negatively, based on the nature of the group. Social media usage also had both positive and negative impacts, with academic-related content enhancing performance, whereas excessive non-academic usage led to distractions.  The study concludes that both peer group influence and social media usage play critical roles in shaping students’ academic performance in organic chemistry. It recommends that schools and parents should encourage positive peer interactions and guide students on responsible social media use to improve their academic outcomes.