Instagram, Youth, and Law Enforcement in Pakistan: A Study of Perceptions, Trust, and Civic Engagement

Abstract

Social media now plays a central role in how young people discuss public issues, especially in societies where access to traditional media is restricted or uneven. In Pakistan, Instagram has become a popular platform for sharing opinions, shaping narratives, and engaging with matters of public concern, including the role and performance of law enforcement agencies. This study explores how Pakistani youth engage with law enforcement related content on Instagram and how such engagement influences their perceptions, levels of trust, and broader civic attitudes.Grounded in Uses and Gratifications Theory, the research adopts a quantitative survey based approach. Data were collected from active Instagram users between the ages of 18 and 30. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, applying descriptive measures along with correlation and regression analysis. The survey examined patterns of Instagram use, types of interaction with law enforcement content, underlying motivations, and the perceived impact of this content on views about policing.The findings indicate that Instagram plays a meaningful role in shaping youth awareness and opinions about law enforcement in Pakistan. Visual posts, hashtags, activist driven campaigns, and content shared by peers and social media influencers emerged as particularly influential. At the same time, respondents expressed concerns about misinformation, selective exposure, and the lack of contextual depth in some content.Overall, the study positions Instagram as a significant digital space for civic learning and participation among Pakistani youth. The findings offer important implications for law enforcement institutions and policymakers seeking to improve public trust, transparency, and constructive engagement with young citizens through social media platforms.