International Journal of Development in Social Sciences and Humanities

The current study investigates the correlation between English as a foreign language (EFL) self-efficacy and social media usage among Iraqi preparatory school students. A quantitative descriptive-correlational design was employed. A random sample of 384 sixth-grade preparatory school students was selected from public schools in Wassit during the second semester of the academic year 2026. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire divided into two main sections: 10 items measuring EFL self-efficacy and 15 items measuring social media usage. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results indicated a significant positive correlation between social media usage and students' EFL self-efficacy, suggesting that constructive engagement with social media platforms can enhance students' academic confidence and self-perceived capabilities in learning English. These findings highlight the importance of leveraging digital platforms to support and reinforce students' academic pursuits. Based on these findings, the study offers practical pedagogical recommendations for curriculum designers and educators to safely and effectively integrate digital platforms into formal Iraqi EFL classrooms."