
579. Are You Caught in a Social Media Trap?
Freakonomics Radio
The Influence of Social Environments and Social Media on Behavior
Social environments have a significant impact on behavior as demonstrated by a study where unmarried female students altered their answers based on who they thought would see them. They presented themselves as less ambitious when they believed classmates would view their answers rather than just the career center. This reveals the influence of social pressures on individuals, leading them to adapt their behavior to fit perceived societal expectations. In a broader context, social media also plays a crucial role in shaping behaviors and attitudes, as evidenced by research on the VK platform in Russia. The study found that social media can amplify xenophobic sentiments and even lead to an increase in xenophobic crimes. These findings highlight the multidimensional impact of social media on society, showcasing its potential negative effects on attitudes and actions.