Free to be me: Safer Internet Day research

Are young people free to be themselves online? How are young people creating their online identities and what impact does this have on their sense of self? This report reveals the way young people are managing and curating their identity online.

The findings show that young people’s online experiences are an essential part of who they are offline. It reveals that technology is a fundamental part of young people’s identity, helping them find themselves, other communities and their own voice offline too. It’s clear that the internet is primarily a place of positivity for young people. Whether being inspired to be the next campaigner, supporter or friend – it’s a place for them to find their voice, explore their identities, and support each other. However,  challenges and limits also arise – whether that is the ‘pressure to be perfect online’ or being targeted based on identity – young people are needing support and are calling for a more inclusive and equal internet.