Recommendation algorithms, used by platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, personalise content by analysing user behaviour such as likes, shares, watch time, and interaction history. While this makes the user experience more engaging, it can significantly shape social behaviour. These algorithms prioritise content that is emotionally engaging or controversial, which can encourage more extreme or sensational material to rise in popularity. As users interact with similar types of content, they are exposed to narrower perspectives, reinforcing their existing views in what is known as an "echo chamber." This can lead to ideological polarisation, groupthink, and reduced exposure to diverse opinions. Additionally, users may begin to change their online behaviour to align with algorithmic trends, seeking validation through likes and shares. Over time, this can alter self-image, encourage performative behaviours, and even drive participation in harmful trends or misinformation cycles, making algorithms highly influential in shaping modern social dynamics.

Online gaming has both positive and negative effects on the social development of young people. Positively, it fosters teamwork, communication, and collaboration, especially in multiplayer environments where players must work together to achieve goals. Games like Minecraft, Fortnite, and League of Legends promote social bonding through shared experiences and often lead to the formation of lasting friendships, even across geographic boundaries. They can also help socially anxious individuals interact in a low-pressure environment. However, excessive gaming can hinder offline social skills and lead to social withdrawal, especially when virtual interactions completely replace real-life communication. There is also potential for exposure to toxic behaviour such as harassment, trolling, or peer pressure, which can affect self-esteem and mental health. Furthermore, in some cases, players may adopt aggressive or impulsive behaviour due to exposure to competitive or violent game environments, influencing real-world attitudes and social behaviour. Balance and guidance are crucial in managing these effects.

Computing technologies significantly influence cultural attitudes toward mental health by expanding awareness and altering the stigma traditionally associated with mental health conditions. Digital platforms allow widespread dissemination of educational materials, personal stories, and expert advice, often reaching communities where mental health discussions are otherwise taboo. Social media campaigns, mental health influencers, and online forums normalise seeking help, encourage empathy, and validate emotional experiences. Additionally, mental health apps offer guided meditations, cognitive behavioural therapy exercises, and journaling features, demonstrating that mental wellbeing is part of daily life. However, the role of computing isn’t entirely positive. Social media can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes, oversimplify complex conditions, or encourage self-diagnosis without professional guidance. Misuse or trivialisation of mental health language online may lead to confusion or misinformation. Nevertheless, the global reach of computing has made mental health a more accessible and open topic, especially among younger generations who are digitally native.

Computing has transformed activism by providing powerful tools for organisation, awareness, and mobilisation. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok enable real-time communication and allow activists to reach a global audience without relying on traditional media. Hashtags, viral posts, and livestreams make it easy to spread messages, raise awareness of injustices, and coordinate protests or campaigns. Crowdfunding platforms support movements financially, while petitions hosted online can gather millions of signatures within hours. Computing also facilitates the documentation of abuses through smartphone video sharing, contributing to greater transparency and accountability. However, there are drawbacks. Movements may be misrepresented, oversimplified, or co-opted by external groups. Activists also face risks such as doxxing, surveillance, or digital harassment. Moreover, the fast-paced nature of online content can lead to short-lived attention spans or "slacktivism," where engagement remains superficial. Despite these challenges, computing has made activism more inclusive, immediate, and far-reaching than ever before.

Yes, digital communication can significantly influence language use and literacy skills, particularly among young people. The use of shorthand, emojis, memes, and acronyms (e.g. “LOL”, “BRB”, “OMG”) has created new linguistic patterns in informal digital settings. While these forms of expression foster creativity, adaptability, and rapid communication, they may also lead to reduced use of formal grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary in academic or professional contexts. Some studies suggest that excessive exposure to non-standard language online can affect spelling accuracy and reading comprehension in students. However, others argue that bilingualism between “text speak” and standard English enhances linguistic flexibility. Platforms like blogs and forums also encourage reading and writing in ways that traditional schooling may not, offering new opportunities for expression. Therefore, the impact on literacy depends largely on context, frequency, and the presence of traditional literacy reinforcement alongside digital engagement. Balancing formal and informal language use is key to maintaining strong literacy skills.