Adolescents experience autonomy online through self-discovery, anonymity, and judgement-free self-expression¶

Claim · All claims
Evidence · 1 study · qualitative r3 · q2
Currency · newest study 2025 · not yet checked against its sources · not reviewed by a person

Subclaims¶

q2 i? Adolescents used online spaces as sanctuaries for self-discovery and support, with anonymity creating judgement-free spaces for authentic self-expression. → Gordon 2025

Evidence¶

Gordon 2025¶

Gordon, C. S., Brake, N., Hammond, S. P., Picton, I., Notley, T., Rowston, K., Gutierrez, A., Basarkod, G., Costello, K., Gupta, M., West, M., & Dicke, T. (2025). Adolescent flourishing in a digitally connected world: A qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis. Preprint. https://osf.io/j48k5/?view_only=8b6423082746439abb4106526e953aaf

q2 · i? · qualitative · r3

Synthesis of qualitative accounts under the autonomy theme: adolescents sought out spaces and content that validated their experiences, with the review reporting that "the anonymity created a judgement free space". One participant stated they could say whatever they wanted without worrying about being judged.

"Evidence indicated that participants used platforms such as Tumblr to journal their challenges, as the anonymity created a judgement free space."

Discussion¶

Related Claims¶

• A meta-synthesis of 90 qualitative studies across 26 countries identifies adolescents' positive online experiences with digital flourishing — a broader claim this one bears on
• Online spaces hold distinctive value for underrepresented adolescents for identity expression, supportive peer networks, and friendships — possibly the same claim (merge candidate)
• Online environments function as virtual youth centres and hubs for bonding and bridging social capital — related
• Anonymous asynchronous online peer review of writing: lower-skill students sometimes felt inferior yet increased determination, while better writers felt they learned less — related