Inclusive Education Practices and Their Impact on Student Engagement and Academic Achievement

Abstract

Social media influencers have emerged as significant actors in contemporary communication environments, shaping consumer preferences, cultural trends, and public discussions. This study examines how influencers develop credibility and influence audience attitudes and behaviors. It investigates the role of perceived authenticity, expertise, personal connection, and repeated interaction in establishing digital authority. The research also explores how audiences distinguish between commercial promotion and genuine personal recommendations. Particular attention is given to the relationship between influencer culture and changing forms of trust in digital communication. The study argues that influencers represent a transformation of traditional opinion leadership by combining personal identity, entertainment, social interaction, and commercial communication within a single digital environment.