Digital Culture, Youth, and Citizenship: A Systematic Review

This systematic literature review explores the relationship between digital culture, youth, and citizenship, as well as the impact of technology and social networks on the formation of identities and civic engagement of young people. Empirical studies published between 1991 and 2021 were analyzed, focusing on the adoption of digital technologies, participation in social networks, and the effect of digital culture on active citizenship. The results indicate that digital culture has transformed the way young people interact and engage with society. Social networks and other digital platforms facilitate access to information, communication, and participation in discussions on topics of interest, thus promoting the development of a broader identity and political awareness. Moreover, digital culture has generated new forms of civic participation, such as online activism and collaboration in community projects. The review also highlights the importance of digital literacy for effectively exercising citizenship in the current context. Access to digital technologies and the ability to use them appropriately are essential for ensuring equitable participation in society. Education in digital skills and access to technological resources should be prioritized to foster civic engagement and youth empowerment. However, challenges such as political polarization, the proliferation of fake news, and online harassment were also identified. These issues can weaken confidence in democratic institutions and affect the quality of public debate.