The Impact of Online Culture on Young Women: Survey Insights
A Girlguiding survey reveals over half of young women aged 11 to 21 stay on social media due to FOMO, despite facing increasing cyber harassment. The study shows increasing exposure to unwanted sexual content and declining confidence in this demographic. The UK government acknowledges the seriousness of rising misogyny and seeks to address it through education and legal measures.
A survey by Girlguiding highlights that fear of missing out (FOMO) is driving over half of 11- to 21-year-old girls and young women to remain active on social platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and WhatsApp, despite increased exposure to unwanted sexual content and cyberstalking.
The survey of over 2,000 participants shows that nearly a fifth report being stalked, and more than a third encounter unsolicited sexual images.
Year-over-year, these online harms are rising, and only 37% of girls in this age group report having strong online connections.
The urge to remain connected is juxtaposed with decreasing confidence and future anxieties, amplified by cultural pressures and sexism.
Official statistics reveal that only 10% of 12-year-olds in the UK are without smartphones.
The Girlguiding advocate reveals the detrimental effects of unrealistic standards and sexism, with 85% of respondents experiencing daily sexism.
This prevalence makes nearly half the surveyed group feel less secure.
The UK government is recognizing extreme misogyny as extremism, striving to combat harmful ideologies.
Girlguiding calls for improved educational resources to foster healthier relationships.
Meanwhile, 44% of girls surveyed feel hopeful and curious about their future.