Misinformation Ranks as Top Stressor for Youth on Social Media, Bullying and Harmful Content Follow

In Bangladesh, two-thirds of young people cite misinformation as their top social media stressor, according to a new UNICEF poll that gathered responses from nearly 29,000 children and youth. The anonymous survey reveals growing concerns about online safety and the impact of unregulated content on vulnerable communities.

Bullying and negative comments ranked as the second most stressful online experience, affecting approximately one-seventh of respondents, with girls reporting slightly higher rates. An equal proportion identified exposure to harmful or upsetting content as their primary source of social media stress.

When asked about content regulation on social media platforms, the majority of young Bangladeshis expressed support for rules governing online behavior. Fifty-two percent of respondents affirmed that “rules are important to stop harmful behaviors like bullying and hate speech,” more than double the 23 percent who worried regulations might restrict free expression.

The poll also revealed widespread concern about the consequences of relaxed online rules. An overwhelming 79 percent of respondents predicted vulnerable groups would face increased harm without adequate safeguards. When identifying which communities would be most at risk, 30 percent named ethnic or religious minorities, 26 percent pointed to children and youth, while 23 percent highlighted potential dangers for women and girls.

“We already know from painful experience that misinformation and hate speech don’t just exist online – they can fuel real-world consequences, putting children at risk of mental and physical harm, especially children that already face discrimination like girls and minorities,” said Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh.

More than half of those surveyed reported noticing changes in the content appearing on their social media feeds. Reactions to these changes varied, with 17 percent reporting they felt less safe online as a result.

The findings come at a critical time when Bangladesh, like many countries, grapples with the rapid evolution of digital spaces and their impact on young users. Social media platforms have become integral to youth communication, education, and social development, yet the lack of consistent safety standards raises significant concerns.

Flowers emphasized that creating safer digital environments requires a multi-stakeholder approach: “The responsibility belongs to all of us, including policy makers, regulators, the big tech companies, educators, parents and caregivers, and the young people using the platforms – to ensure children and young people can access accurate and reliable information online, know how to distinguish truth from misinformation, and safely navigate online spaces.”

Digital literacy has emerged as a crucial skill for Bangladesh’s youth population, who must navigate increasingly complex online environments while developing the critical thinking abilities needed to identify false information.

UNICEF has called for urgent action from policymakers, regulators, and technology companies operating in Bangladesh. The organization advocates for three key priorities: implementing effective content moderation systems that protect children’s dignity and safety; creating inclusive digital spaces where young people can express themselves without fear; and expanding digital literacy education to equip youth with cybersafety skills.

The poll was conducted through UNICEF’s U-Report platform in Bangladesh, which enables young people to share opinions on issues affecting their lives. These findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders working to balance free expression with necessary protections in digital spaces.

As Bangladesh continues its digital transformation, the survey highlights the need for collaborative approaches that center the experiences and concerns of young users while working toward safer, more inclusive online environments.