Abstract
This study examines the influence of social media use on the relationship expectations of single men and women in Osogbo, the capital city of Osun State, Nigeria. The study specifically investigates the extent of social media use, the nature of relationship expectations held by single adults, how social media shapes these expectations, the types of expectations evoked, and the social media platforms that exert the greatest influence. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, targeting single men and women aged 18–45 who actively use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and dating applications. The population comprises single adults residing in Osogbo, with a sample size of 399 respondents selected through a multi-stage sampling technique combining purposive and simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis at a 5% level of significance. Findings reveal a high level of social media use among respondents, with frequent engagement in relationship-related content. Results also indicate that social media significantly influences relationship expectations, particularly in areas such as communication, emotional support, partner behaviour, and standards for romantic relationships. Interactive features, influencer content, and social comparisons were identified as key factors shaping these expectations. Gender differences were observed, with males reporting slightly higher influence of social media on their relationship expectations than females. The study concludes that social media plays a substantial role in shaping how single adults perceive and form expectations about romantic relationships. It recommends mindful social media use, digital media literacy education, and the promotion of realistic relationship portrayals online to foster healthier relationship expectations.