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Analyzing the Impact of Metaverse Technology on Social Development: A Field Study on Generation Z in the United Arab Emirates

Author

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  • Enaam Youssef

    (Department of Sociology, College of Humanities and Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
    Department of Sociology, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
    Humanities and Social Sciences Research Centre, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates)

  • Mervat Medhat

    (College of Mass Communication, Ajman University, Ajman 61001, United Arab Emirates
    Art & Design Academy, Higher Institution of Applied Art, Cairo 11566, Egypt)

  • Soumaya Abdellatif

    (Department of Sociology, College of Humanities and Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
    Humanities and Social Sciences Research Centre, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates)

  • Nagwa Babiker Yousif

    (Department of Sociology, College of Humanities and Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
    Humanities and Social Sciences Research Centre, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates)

Abstract

Considering the current role of technology, this research aims to investigate the impact of the metaverse on social development and psychological well-being in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The focus remains on Generation Z, as an important portion of the country’s metaverse users. Supported by the technology determinism theory, this research used a structured questionnaire to gather data from 363 respondents. The analysis indicates that metaverse technology significantly impacts social development and psychological well-being. The effect of metaverse technology on social development remained positive, with the p -value at p > 0.000. In addition, metaverse technology also has a significant positive effect on psychological well-being ( p > 0.000), with the findings showing strong statistical support for this relationship. These results confirm that metaverse technology plays a significant role in improving both social and psychological facets. Thus, it is concluded that the metaverse creates immersive virtual environments that help unique forms of social interaction and connectivity, confounding geographical barriers. This can improve social skills and communication and promote a strong sense of community. The metaverse offers a directed and engaging space to practice social interactions and gain confidence, indicating its positive, constructive role in society.

Suggested Citation

  • Enaam Youssef & Mervat Medhat & Soumaya Abdellatif & Nagwa Babiker Yousif, 2024. "Analyzing the Impact of Metaverse Technology on Social Development: A Field Study on Generation Z in the United Arab Emirates," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 13(9), pages 1-21, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:13:y:2024:i:9:p:446-:d:1464954
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ikram Ud Din & Ahmad Almogren, 2023. "Exploring the psychological effects of Metaverse on mental health and well-being," Information Technology & Tourism, Springer, vol. 25(3), pages 367-389, September.
    2. Mohamed Ali Trabelsi, 2022. "What is the impact of social well-being factors on happiness?," European Journal of Management Studies, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 28(1), pages 37-47, December.
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