Our recent Beyond Likes 2024 report has revealed that political views have now surpassed physical appearance as the number one cause for cyberbullying and online abuse in the US.
The research, conducted on our behalf by Censuswide in the United States, asked 1000 adults aged 16+ across the US questions relating to their experiences of cyberbullying, both as targets and bystanders, and how those experiences impacted their mental health and self-image. The sample of the study is representative of US demographics across all 50 states.
When asked, "For what reasons have you seen people being targeted with cyberbullying and abuse?" an overwhelming 44% of respondents replied with political views, followed by 40% answering political appearance. Other common responses included expression of opinion (38%), sexual orientation (32%), race or ethnicity (33%), and gender identity (29%).
"This new data is shocking for many reasons. Politics has now topped traditionally massive cyberbullying topics, including physical appearance and gender identity. This shows us that people aren't able to think and express opinions, political or otherwise, without being targeted. Freedom of expression is fundamental. We believe that social media has the power to enable diversity of thought and meaningful dialogue, as long as a healthy debate doesn't turn into abuse," said Scott Freeman, CEO of The Cybersmile Foundation.
"And this issue is sadly not exclusive to young adults. We can't expect young people to be positive digital citizens if this is how they are seeing grown adults behave toward each other. In addition to offering support, we hope that broader awareness of political cyberbullying prompts social media users to step back and rethink behavior."
Further findings from the report include:
- 88% feel that cyberbullying is a serious issue
- 70% feel that cyberbullying should be a criminal offense across all states
- 60% know someone who has experienced cyberbullying 60% of those who have experienced cyberbullying or harassment said it negatively affects their mental health
- 55% have seen someone else cyberbullied or harassed
- 51% want to see improved reporting on social media to better address cyberbullying
- 32% say the fear of cyberbullying has stopped them from sharing selfies, expressing themselves, or trying new things
- 30% of those who have personally experienced cyberbullying or harassment say it makes them feel self-hatred
- 30% have been bullied or harassed on social media
- 25% have deleted a post due to cyberbullying or harassment
- 23% feel that social media has made them unsatisfied with their own lives
- 11% have wanted to change their appearance through surgery due to cyberbullying
- 10% have considered self-harm or suicide due to being cyberbullied or harassed
We will continue to monitor all aspects of online abuse through regular research and will develop effective solutions based on the findings.