Recent research from Povaddo uncovers Americans’ most pressing concerns about social media, as well as ways that companies can increase trust in their industry.
Key Insights
Americans, parents and non-parents alike, are generally more concerned about online safety for children and teens than any other social media risk, even more than privacy, misinformation, or cybersecurity.
Most Americans see the potential of AI but want stronger rules and oversight, prioritizing responsible development over speed or fear as they worry it’s advancing faster than it can be fully understood or regulated.
Social media companies can increase trust in their industry by increasing transparency around efforts to reduce harmful or misleading content, followed by implementing stronger privacy protections and enhancing safeguards for children and teens online.
Americans’ concerns about the energy use and environmental footprint of social media companies are quite low versus safety and privacy concerns. This is true even among younger adults.
All of these concerns are consistent between Democrats and Republicans, with no significant differences.
Boomers report higher levels of concern across all of these issues compared to younger generations.
College-educated Americans are much more likely to favor developing AI as quickly as possible.
Virtually no differences in opinion are seen between Republicans and Democrats on this issue.
Despite above-average support for developing AI quickly, college educated Americans share concerns about the technology.
Boomers are most concerned about the development of AI progressing too quickly.
Transparency around efforts to reduce harmful and misleading content is most important to Gen Z, Boomers, and non-parents.
Beyond this top-rated action, reports of how social media companies can most increase trust in their industry are widespread. The industry faces an uphill battle.
America’s Point of View (APOV)
APOV is a thought leadership series designed to contribute to the public debate about key issues impacting society and to help organizations navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic landscape.
About This Study
Sample: n=1,001 general population adults (18+)
Methodology: Online survey
Field Dates: August 19-27, 2025
Weighting: The data was weighted by age, gender, ethnicity, race, education, income, region, and political party affiliation to match national statistics
Margin of error: ±3.1% (national level)
For further study details, please contact: info@povaddo.com
About Povaddo
Povaddo is a research firm that specializes in helping our clients develop better strategies and stronger communications to address complex issues and challenges that are facing their organizations.
For over 15 years, Povaddo has completed north of 1,000 studies – surveys, focus groups, and in-depth interviews – across more than 100 countries and six continents. During this time, Povaddo has developed a reputation as one of the foremost opinion research firms capable of handling projects all over the world.
Learn more about PovaddoFor business inquiries, please contact us at: info@povaddo.com
