Construction of reality – social media and the perception of truth

By Fiifi NETTEY

Social media is defined as the set of interactive Internet applications that facilitate (collaborative or individual) creation, curation and sharing of user-generated content. — Jenny L. Davis (2016).

Social media has become one of the most influential tools, shaping public perception and opinions today. For many, it is not only the primary source of information but also the main lens through which they define truth and reality.

A growing number of people now assume that whatever appears online is the truth, a dangerous misconception that blurs the line between fact, fiction and perception. Over time, social media has constructed a virtual reality that feels more authentic than real life, influencing thoughts, behaviours and values in ways that increasingly shape society.

Unfortunately, this trend has begun to erode some of our cultural values and social norms. Some influencers, in pursuit of fame and followers, present distorted portrayals of life that the less-informed often accept as truth. These “constructed realities” mislead audiences, shaping identities and attitudes in ways that stray from genuine moral and cultural foundations.

In Ghana, the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) covers all forms of electronic communication, including online activities. Sections 74 to 76 make it an offense to knowingly post or share false or misleading information, with violators liable to fines or imprisonment. Similarly, Section 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) criminalises publishing or reproducing any statement, rumour or report likely to cause fear, alarm or public disturbance when the content is known to be false.

Despite the presence of these laws, weak enforcement and inadequate oversight have worsened the situation. Authorities often encounter strong resistance when attempting to enforce the law or sanitise the system.

Their actions are frequently misinterpreted as attempts to suppress free expression, restrict information flow or undermine press freedom—discouraging strict regulation. Consequently, misinformation, inappropriate content and adult-themed material continue to circulate freely and remain easily accessible, particularly to younger and more impressionable audiences.

A colleague expressed frustration over the spread of false information by some influencers as most of what they share isn’t factual, yet it gains massive followership, causing real harm. He stressed that content creation requires responsibility, emphasising that creators must consider the impact of their posts on the audience and society at large.

Jeanette added that everyone has become an influencer, which isn’t inherently bad; but we must ensure that the right information is shared to educate youth and the public. Social media has become polluted with insults and personal attacks, defaming people, turning a tool for learning into a platform for negativity and fake news.

She also drew attention to the dangers posed by self-proclaimed counsellors who lack professional certification, warning that social media never forgets — and that online content can have lasting consequences. Their actions and advice, she noted, are misleading the public and causing significant harm to society.

Many people are falling victim to their deceit and misguided explanations of issues, often framing them as spiritual problems or other misconceptions that actually require proper diagnosis and intervention from trained professionals to identify and address the real causes. Patrick observed that much online content is designed solely to attract followers, fuelled by boredom and the desire for entertainment. Almost anything can go viral, and others quickly imitate and spread the content, he explained.

Michael cautioned that social media has become a space for both information and misinformation. He noted that some influencers and commentators fail to realise the power they hold. Every post leaves a digital footprint, he explained, adding that an Internet Protocol (IP) address — a unique number assigned to each device on a network — functions like a digital home address, making it possible to trace the source of any online activity.

A psychologist who preferred to remain anonymous explained that the growing spread of fake news on social media has had a deep psychological impact on society. Continuous exposure to false or misleading information, the psychologist noted, often leads to confusion, anxiety and mistrust among users.

Many people find it increasingly difficult to separate truth from falsehood, resulting in emotional fatigue and scepticism toward even credible sources. Constant interaction with fake stories can also reinforce personal biases — a psychological effect known as confirmation bias — making individuals less open to truth and critical reasoning.

Over time, this distortion of reality polarises communities, fuels fear and resentment and weakens social unity. Ultimately, fake news does more than misinform; it shapes perceptions, manipulates emotions and erodes the collective sense of truth and trust that binds society together. The psychologist stressed that the situation is worsening in the country and called for urgent, firm measures to curb this growing menace.

Social media should be a tool for learning, connection and empowerment; not a platform for distorting truth, damaging reputations or undermining values. It is time for individuals, creators and regulators alike to take a critical look at how reality is being constructed online and its impact on our collective morality and understanding of truth. The power of social media is undeniable, but so is the responsibility that comes with it.

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