Misrepresentation of Cultural Identity among Youths in Benue State, Nigeria

Introduction

Culture represents the identity and way of life of a people. It shapes values, behaviour, beliefs, language, dressing, and social relationships within society. In many African societies, especially in Nigeria, culture has traditionally played an important role in guiding moral values and maintaining social order.

However, many Nigerian youths today are gradually abandoning their indigenous cultural values and embracing foreign lifestyles in the name of modernisation and sophistication. Western influence, peer pressure, globalisation, and social media have contributed greatly to this shift in identity. As a result, many traditional customs, moral standards, and communal values are becoming weakened.

This paper examines the problem of cultural identity misrepresentation among youths in Benue State, Nigeria. It discusses how westernisation and changing social structures influence youth behaviour and contribute to the decline of traditional African values. The study also highlights the role of parents, society, and cultural institutions in preserving cultural identity for future generations.