EIREducational Innovation Research3029-18443029-1852Bio-Byword Scientific Publishing Pty. Ltd.10.18063/EIR.v3i5.597ArticleFormation Mechanism and Governance Path of "Light Social Interaction" among College Students from the Perspective of Social Exclusionhttps://artdesignp.com/journal/EIR/3/5/10.18063/EIR.v3i5.597GeHongbei,ZhouYibo,LinXiaojuan,DaiShengwei2025352025-06-26The phenomenon of "light social interaction" among college students, characterized by low investment and shallow interaction, is replacing traditional deep connections. This study uses a three-dimensional framework based on social exclusion theory—institutional, technological, and relational exclusion—to analyze the mechanisms behind this trend and explore solutions. Findings show that light interaction is an adaptive response to exclusion: institutional pressures foster utilitarianism, technology weakens real-world social skills, and relational gaps in both online and offline networks reinforce this behavior. While it may temporarily ease exclusion, it risks a cycle leading to deeper exclusion. Addressing this issue requires multi-stakeholder collaboration: reforming education to reduce institutional exclusion, regulating technology to minimize alienation, and enhancing students' real-world interaction through training and peer support. This study offers a theoretical lens for understanding youth sociocultural shifts in the digital age and provides practical strategies for building a healthier social environment.College Students,Social Exclusion,Light Social Interaction,Digital Technology,Educational Involution

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