Online incivility on social media and its effects
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| Year of publication | 2025 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | With the increasing use of social media, there has been a renewed interest among researchers in online incivility due to its impact on mental and physical health, as well as social media behavior (e.g., active online engagement). Incivility is often associated with breaking cultural norms, but what is considered a violation of these norms can vary depending on several factors, such as the context of a particular country, discussion partners, or topic, as well as individual characteristics and traits. This chapter aims to provide an overview of the debate around the challenges in conceptualizing and measuring online incivility, particularly in the context of its effects on online behavior. Uncivil discourse can include many types of expressions, with varying degrees of offensiveness or potential harm. Therefore, it is crucial to differentiate between various types of incivility and their effects. The effects of incivility will be explored from two angles: its impact on society, including aspects such as deliberation and polarization, and its effects at the individual level, focusing on emotional reactions. Additionally, the chapter will discuss research addressing and preventing incivility, including content moderation, personal strategies for managing exposure to uncivil interactions, and community-led initiatives to foster supportive online environments. Challenges related to content moderation and the implications of bias in algorithmic decision-making will also be covered. |
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