<![CDATA[This study aimed to determine the influence of social media on the character development of third-grade elementary school students. The rapid advancement of information technology has made social media an integral part of children's daily lives. Social media usage can produce both positive and negative impacts on character development; therefore, it is important to examine its effects on elementary school children. This study employed a quantitative approach using a descriptive method. The participants were third-grade elementary school students, with a sample of 30–40 students selected through purposive and random sampling techniques. Data were collected through questionnaires, observations, and interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and simple regression. The results showed that most students used social media for approximately 2–3 hours per day, accounting for 50% of the respondents. The most frequently used social media platforms were YouTube and TikTok. The analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between social media usage intensity and children's character development, with a correlation coefficient of r = –0.52 (p < 0.05). Higher social media usage intensity was associated with lower character scores, particularly in the aspects of discipline and responsibility. However, social media also provided positive effects, such as enhancing children's creativity, self-confidence, and knowledge when used wisely under the supervision of parents and teachers. Therefore, social media significantly influences the character development of third-grade elementary school students, both positively and negatively, depending on usage intensity and the quality of guidance provided.]]>
