THE MANIPULATIVE INFLUENCE OF SPIRITUAL-IDEOLOGICAL FACTORS ON THE SOCIO-CULTURAL SOCIALIZATION OF YOUTH IN MODERN SOCIETY

Abstract

This article examines the manipulative influence of spiritual-ideological factors on the socio-cultural socialization of youth in contemporary society. The study analyzes the mechanisms through which ideological currents, mass media, social networks, and digital communication channels exert covert influence on young people’s consciousness in the era of globalization. Employing a mixed-methods approach combining systemic analysis, structural-functional theory, and empirical research involving 500 respondents aged 18–30, the study identifies five principal mechanisms of manipulative influence: informational, emotional, identificational, axiological, and religious-ideological manipulation. Findings reveal that 71.7% of young people accept information without critical evaluation, while a strong positive correlation (r = 0.72, p < 0.01) exists between adherence to national values and resilience against manipulation. The article proposes a comprehensive framework for developing ideological immunity among youth through educational reform, family institution strengthening, and state policy measures. The results contribute to the theoretical understanding of youth socialization dynamics and offer practical recommendations for safeguarding young people against destructive ideological influences.