Online Communities Rarely Focus on Politics, and Many Say It Should Stay That Way
Most people in online communities see little to no politics in their go-to space, and 54% say it doesn’t belong there.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
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Eugenie Park
Research Analyst
Eugenie Park is a research analyst at Pew Research Center.
Publications
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The Gender Gap in AI
Men and women now use AI chatbots at similar rates, but men use them more often, while women are more skeptical of AI’s impact on their lives.
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Online Community and Connection in America
Nearly four-in-ten U.S. adults are in an online community. These virtual third spaces can take many forms, like Facebook groups, online video games or fandom forums on Reddit.
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Fewer Americans use cash today than a decade ago, but many still carry it
Today, 42% of U.S. adults say they don’t use cash for any purchases in a typical week. This is up from 24% in 2015.
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Young adults in the U.S. are increasingly wary of AI, concerned it will take jobs
About half of Americans say they’re more concerned than excited about AI, and young adults’ concern is rising.
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Americans and AI 2026: Chatbots, Smart Devices and Views on Impact
More Americans are using chatbots, and some are adopting AI summaries and smart speakers. But views about AI and how fast it’s advancing tilt negative – even for younger adults.
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Teens’ Experiences on TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat
Teens largely turn to TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat for fun and connection. But experiences around messaging, screen time and cyberbullying vary. And what teens say about how these sites impact their mental health.
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About 4 in 10 teens support cellphone bans in classrooms; fewer back all-day restrictions
About one-in-five teens support banning cellphones during the entire school day, including at lunch and between classes.
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Americans’ Social Media Use 2025
YouTube remains the most popular, but adults are increasingly using Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp and Reddit. Use of some platforms varies by age, gender, and race and ethnicity.
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42% of social media users say the sites are important for them getting involved with political, social issues
Younger adults on social media are much more likely than older users to say social media is important for finding like-minded people and getting involved.
