Internet subcultures as a tool for transforming the spiritual values of modern youth: challenges, risks, threats

The subject of the research is the influence of Internet subcultures on the transformation of spiritual values among contemporary youth in the context of digital culture development. The study examines Internet subcultures as a specific form of network identity based on horizontal communication, meme-based symbolism and digital interaction patterns. It is shown that participation in online communities leads to the rethinking of traditional spiritual and moral orientations, the transformation of behavioural models, and the formation of new forms of symbolic and cultural self-identification. The analysis focuses on mechanisms of value transformation emerging within digital subcultures, including accelerated mediatization, symbolic reduction, multi-layered identity, and normalization of deviant practices. The research also identifies risks associated with toxic, radical and deviant online groups — value fragmentation, distortion of moral norms, decrease in spiritual resilience and risk of radicalization. Particular attention is paid to preventive approaches aimed at the preservation of youth spiritual integrity through the development of digital literacy, support of positive online practices, strengthening of cultural and educational institutions, and creation of a safe media environment. The methodological framework is based on systemic, cultural and sociological approaches, combined with comparative and content analysis of Internet communities, elements of discourse analysis, and axiological assessment tools for evaluating value transformation among youth. The scientific novelty lies in conceptualizing Internet subcultures as a key mechanism of spiritual value transformation in the digital era and in revealing dual effects of online participation: the digital environment simultaneously forms creative potential, social cooperation and new models of civic spirituality, while also producing risks of identity fragmentation, depreciation of moral guidelines and normalization of deviant behaviour. The study clarifies how meme-driven communication, rapid symbolic exchange and multi-vector identity construction redefine the spiritual landscape of youth, weakening intergenerational value continuity and shifting moral decision-making into a situational and emotionally reactive domain. It is demonstrated that risks decrease under conditions of systemic prevention which includes digital competence development, cultural and educational programs, institutional support for constructive media practices and creation of a protective online infrastructure. The findings may be used in educational policy, media education programs and further interdisciplinary research on youth value transformation in the digital age.

spiritual culture of youth, internet subcultures, digital culture, value transformation, social risks, deviant communities, media environment, prevention, identity, internet practices