About A Third of Americans Have Left An Online Community

About one-third of U.S. adults have left an online community, according to a Pew Research Center survey of 9,750 Americans. More than eight in 10 who left cite losing interest as a reason, while 57% point to excessive arguing, 43% mention harassment and 37% say they were spending too much time online. Younger adults are more likely to have abandoned an online community, including 44% of those under 30 and 40% of those ages 30 to 49, compared with just 19% of adults 65 and older. Changing interests, declining community quality and life transitions also influence decisions to leave.

The findings highlight the importance of meaningful connections for community organizations, fitness centers, hobby shops, bookstores, entertainment venues, educational institutions, social clubs and local event organizers. Sellers can encourage these advertisers to promote in-person activities, shared interests, welcoming environments and experiences that bring people together beyond their screens.