TIL that a poll found 40% of people under 30 have self-censored online out of fear of backlash

I saw this stat in a Pew Research report and it really surprised me, honestly. Has anyone else felt that pressure to just not say anything?

3 comments

3 Comments

amy1541mo ago

It's not just about avoiding backlash, it's about the mental energy of dealing with potential arguments. You end up just not posting because it's easier, which makes online spaces feel less real. That's a big loss for open talk.

-1

julia_patel1mo ago

I started a private group with five close friends and we share freely there.

felixramirez1mo ago

Wait, only five people? That sounds so small and safe, like a digital blanket fort. I can't imagine having a space that quiet online anymore.