More Than 50% of Gen Z Say Cringe Fear Stifles Self-Expression Online

2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 3

A Yahoo-YouGov poll found more than half of Gen Z say fear of seeming “cringe” stops them expressing themselves online, while 55% say it also keeps them from opening up emotionally.
Academics and therapists tie that inhibition to constant social-media surveillance, with TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat making young users feel judged on every post, pose and attempt at sincerity.
That pressure is spilling offline: interviewees described clubs where no one dances, safer fashion choices and anxiety about being recorded in public, while some say the scrutiny can make going outside feel unsafe.
Experts say the remedy is smaller trusted communities, less time online and accepting embarrassment as part of growth; some creators now frame “climbing cringe mountain” as the route to freedom and authenticity.

Sources

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