Former Research Associate
Maeve Duggan is a former research associate focusing on internet and technology at Pew Research Center.
Americans agree that certain behaviors – like direct personal threats – constitute online harassment. But they are more divided on others, such as sending unkind messages or publicly sharing a private conversation.
Although online harassment can take many forms, some minority groups in America more frequently encounter harassment that carries racial overtones.
Among women who have experienced any form of online harassment, 35% say they found their most recent incident to be “extremely” or “very” upsetting.
Roughly four-in-ten Americans have personally experienced online harassment, and 62% consider it a major problem.
The share of Americans who use Facebook is on the rise: 79% of online adults use the platform, more than double the share that uses Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram or LinkedIn.
Some Americans enjoy the opportunities for political debate and engagement that social media facilitates, but many more express resignation, frustration over the tone and content of social platforms.
Many Americans say they might provide personal information in commercial settings, depending on the deal being offered and how much risk they face.
The share of Americans with broadband at home has plateaued: It now stands at 67%, down slightly from 70% in 2013. At the same time, more Americans rely only on their smartphones for online access.
Americans’ attitudes toward games – and the people who play them – are complex and often uncertain.
36% of adult smartphone owners use messaging apps, while 17% use apps that automatically delete sent messages. These types of apps are adding to an already complex terrain of digital and social communication. Meanwhile, social media platforms continue to attract dedicated users.
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