GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES IN DIGITAL NEWS ENGAGEMENT: THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGICAL ACCESS AND MEDIA MOTIVATION IN DERA ISMAIL KHAN

Abstract

Examining generational differences in digital news consumption and media engagement patterns, this quantitative research paper attempts to investigates how age and gender influence news platform preferences, frequency of media use, and patterns of information engagement in Dera Ismail Khan by applying Uses and Gratifications theory, Media Ecology perspective, and Digital Divide framework in a single conceptual framework to analyze variations in media behavior. For the data collected through structural survey, statistical analysis reveals a significant relationship between age and digital media use. Gender differences appear limited to the study’s extent but indicate variation in platform interaction patterns with younger participants showing higher engagement with social media platforms, while older participants demonstrating stronger preference for traditional media sources. findings revealing technological access, media motivations, and digital competence shaping news consumption behavior across generations and contributes empirical evidence on digital media transformation in a small urban context. This study highlights the need for age-sensitive communication strategies in contemporary journalism.