Is Social Media Harmful? Poll Reveals Americans Think Facebook, Twitter Divides Country

A new poll shows Americans believe social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter are dividing the nation rather than offering the opportunity to bring it together.

An NBC News poll released Sunday found that 64% of Americans believe the content on social media platforms divides the country. From that group, 70% were white, 56% were Latinos, 77% were Republicans, 54% were Democrats, 71% were seniors, and 61% were young adults.

While 66% of adults admitted they use social media once a day or more, 33% said they do not.

The percentage of those who think social media is dividing the nation has grown compared to a 2019 poll. In that poll, 57% thought social media was causing division.

The new figures come as social media giants have faced growing scrutiny over the spread of misinformation.

Out of all of the adult participants in the poll, 43% revealed their screen time has increased while 8% said it decreased, and 49% said it stayed the same.

Meanwhile, 49% of participants believe social media makes their lives better while 37% claim it makes their lives worse.

The poll found that men, Republicans, and those without college degrees are more likely to be opposed to social media compared to women, Democrats, and college graduates, who believe it makes their lives better.