Why do LGBTQ Americans leave online communities?
Among U.S. adults who have left an online community, % who say each of the following is a reason why
Note: For details on how we asked about being part of online communities, refer to the topline. Major/minor reason are combined. Statistically significant differences in bold. Those who did not answer or said “not a reason” are not shown.
Source: Pew Research Center survey of U.S. adults conducted May 26-June 1, 2026.
PEW-KNIGHT INITIATIVE
Why do LGBTQ Americans leave online communities?
Among U.S. adults who have left an online community, % who say each of the following is a reason why
| Are LGBTQ | Are not LGBTQ | DIFF | |
|---|---|---|---|
| People were harassed | 57 | 41 | 16 |
| Didn’t feel they belonged | 57 | 44 | 13 |
| Too much arguing | 63 | 55 | 8 |
| Life changed, no longer needed | 64 | 60 | 4 |
| Wasn’t as good as it used to be | 73 | 70 | 3 |
| Spending too much time there | 39 | 36 | 3 |
| Lost interest | 85 | 85 | 0 |
| Too much political discussion | 41 | 43 | -2 |
Note: For details on how we asked about being part of online communities, refer to the topline. Major/minor reason are combined. Statistically significant differences in bold. Those who did not answer or said “not a reason” are not shown.
Source: Pew Research Center survey of U.S. adults conducted May 26-June 1, 2026.
PEW-KNIGHT INITIATIVE
