A minimal segment of users dominantly post hate speech on Danish online social platforms.

A New Danish Study Reveals the Few Driving Abusive Content on Facebook

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In the largest analysis conducted in Denmark, examining hate and abuse on Facebook, it's been discovered that a small gang of users generate the majority of offensive content.

The study, carried out by Trygfonden and Analyse & Tal, scrutinized 73 million posts and comments on Facebook, using AI for the analysis. Project leader Christoffer Elbrønd highlighted that, unlike previous studies by the groups, there isn't a significant change in the amount of abusive content on social media, despite ongoing efforts to improve online discourse.

He describes this volume of verbal attacks and hateful speech as a "democratic problem."

The report indicates that hateful attacks often target race, gender, or disability. Individuals from the Middle East, women, and those with mental disabilities face the highest proportion of criticism. Yet, Elbrønd clarifies that a small number of people are responsible for the majority of abusive comments.

"It's shocking to find that 1.5 percent of users produce 100 percent of these attacks," Elbrønd commented. This suggests that most users experience the backlash from a minor fraction of the user base.

Elbrønd adds that excessive criticism can deter individuals from participating in conversations, muting their views on vital issues.

The Demographics

The study reveals that 68 percent of abuse on politicians' Facebook pages with the severest abuse come from men. Those aged over 40 account for 80 percent of all attacks. Abusive tone within Danish Facebook is influenced by events in the larger global community, Elbrønd also points out.

Unfortunately, it seems that violence and hateful speech continue to escalate in the world, and the heated debates on social media reflect that. The aggressive language employed in the media and politics appears to provoke more abusive responses.

Steps to Improve

Trygfonden encourages social media users to reflect upon the tone they choose to express their opinions and be proactive in curbing abusive comments. The platforms, as well, bear responsibility for moderating objectionable content to create friendlier discussion spaces.

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The Danish study, focusing on hate and abuse on Facebook, reveals that a tiny fraction of users, approximately 1.5%, generate all abusive content.
The report also indicates that hateful attacks usually target race, gender, or disability, with individuals from the Middle East, women, and those with mental disabilities facing the highest proportion of criticism.
In the discussion section below, join us to share your thoughts, experiences, and queries regarding the study's findings and ways to improve online discourse.
Technology and social media have an impact on the discourse, as the aggressive language used in the media and politics seems to provoke more abusive responses.
The study further shows that the abusive tone within Danish Facebook is influenced by events in the larger global community, emphasizing the linked nature of discourse on social-media platforms and the broader world events.