The perceived influence of propaganda in understanding civic issues

Janica Ann G. Banlasan & Jhessabel T. Reytana

Volume 5 Issue 2 December 2025

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https://doi.org/10.53378/trp.196

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Abstract

The acceleration of information access and dissemination in the digital age presents a growing challenge to the individuals’ ability to critically understand and engage with civic issues. This study aimed to examine the perceived influence of propaganda on individuals’ understanding of civic issues, focusing on how it shapes societal perceptions, political alignments, collective action, and trust in media and institutions. The study employed descriptive-comparative research design, utilizing a validated questionnaire to gather data from 100 respondents, who were young adults with high school education. The findings showed that participants relied on social media for civic information and demonstrated moderate level of media literacy. There was no significant difference in the perceived influence of propaganda when grouped according to demographic profile, except for educational attainment, which showed a significant relationship with political alignment. The findings suggest that higher education enhances individuals’ critical thinking. However, the study was limited to a single community, which may restrict the generalizability of its results. The findings also highlight the need for enhanced media literacy programs across educational levels to help individuals identify false information, recognize propaganda techniques, and evaluate source credibility. These insights informed the development of social media awareness campaign aimed at addressing propaganda-related issues in the community.

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Author information & Contribution

Janica Ann G. Banlasan. Corresponding author. CSTC College of Sciences, Technology, and Communications, Inc. Email: janicabanlasan@gmail.com

Jhessabel T. Reytana. CSTC College of Sciences, Technology, and Communications, Inc. Email: jhessabelreytana94@gmail.com

"All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript."

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Cite this article:

Banlasan, J.A.G. & Reytana, J.T. (2025). The perceived influence of propaganda in understanding civic issues. The Research Probe, 5(2), 87-105. https://doi.org/10.53378/trp.196