Social Surveys
Articles tagged with Social Surveys
60% of U.S. teens have tried AI chatbots, 11.4% use them almost daily
Early institutional care lowers life expectancy
A long-term study finds that children in infant care institutions had a 48% higher risk of mortality and shorter life expectancy than those raised at home. The research highlights the importance of affection and stimulation in early childhood, revealing lifelong consequences for those who experienced institutional care.
Orange County residents take pragmatic view on immigration
Orange County residents hold broadly positive but carefully qualified views on immigration, recognizing its benefits while drawing distinctions around enforcement. The UCI-OC Poll found that Orange County residents are pragmatic about immigration, supporting targeted enforcement against human trafficking and limiting immigration from u...
New study finds a simple rule behind how social norms spread
Researchers found that people follow a two-stage process, sampling behaviors at first and committing once enough evidence accumulates. The Tolerance Principle predicts when people have seen enough regularity to treat a pattern as a rule despite some exceptions.
Why heat deaths occur during low-level alerts - new UK study
A new UK study found that many heat-related deaths occur during lower-level alerts, highlighting widespread gaps in awareness and response. Older people are particularly vulnerable to these risks, with lower engagement with warnings leaving them exposed.
Economic hardship tied to increased violence across California
A new statewide survey found that economic instability is strongly associated with higher rates of violence among California adults. Adults experiencing homelessness were about five times more likely to report physical violence, while those facing food insecurity were about four times more likely. The study highlights the need for a pu...
New research finds workers are leveraging AI for career mobility as employers struggle to keep pace
The University of Phoenix Career Institute's sixth annual study found that half of workers say AI makes them more confident about pivoting to a new role. Workers are increasingly turning to AI independently to strengthen their readiness, boosting confidence in building skills and identifying new ways to apply them.
Male gender, marriage, and social support linked to flourishing mental health for older Canadians
A new study found that male, married Canadians with social support, healthy habits, and excellent health are more likely to experience high levels of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Social support was a key factor associated with flourishing mental health among older adults.
Modest employment gains for people with disabilities in March
The April 2026 nTIDE report shows modest gains in employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities, increasing from 38.1% to 38.5%, and labor force participation rate also increased, suggesting more individuals with disabilities entering the workforce to support their families amid rising prices.
Conclusions often diverge when hundreds of researchers reanalyze the same data
A large-scale study published in Nature found that hundreds of researchers reanalyzing the same data often reached divergent conclusions. The study highlighted the critical role of collaboration and exchange across disciplines in achieving robust results.
Adult children’s unemployment is associated with the depression risk of older parents in India
A new study from Umea University reveals that adult children's unemployment is strongly associated with the depression risk of older parents in India. The research, based on extensive data from the Longitudinal Ageing Survey of India, shows a clear link between child employment and parental mental health.
Normative messaging bridges the partisan gap in pandemic risk-taking, study shows
Research shows that targeted interventions highlighting personal impact on others can alter behavior among partisans. Both Republican and Democratic voters reduced risk-taking when presented with a simple message asking to choose the safer option for themselves and others.
Survey suggests one million UK adults had drink spiked in previous year
A recent UK survey conducted by Anglia Ruskin University found that approximately 2% of adults reported being victims of drink spiking in the previous 12 months, equating to nearly one million people. Women were more likely to experience spiking, and incidents are often linked to sexual assault, physical assault, theft, or 'pranks'.
Some Canadians are willing to eat insect-based food — but conditions apply
A study found that 44% of respondents were open to trying insects, while 27% were willing to include them in their regular diet. Curiosity and perceived health benefits were key motivators, while disgust and fear were major barriers. Presenting insect-based products in a appealing way can help increase acceptance.
Gen Z holds companies to account for greenwashing
Members of Gen Z actively observe, evaluate and judge companies' environmental behavior, valuing commitment and credibility. They are more critical and demanding than previous generations, with varying perceptions across countries and genders.
Racial, political cues on social media shape TV audiences’ choices
A recent study suggests that social media users are more likely to watch TV programs endorsed by members of their political party. However, individuals' racial identity and perceptions of racial and political ingroup norms also play a role in their decisions. The study found that white Republicans reported the weakest intentions to wat...
Increased risk of bullying in open-plan offices
A study by Linköping University found that traditional open-plan offices increase the risk of bullying, while activity-based offices show no increased risk. The researchers suggest providing private spaces and handling irritation before it escalates as key lessons for employers.
Most of the Spanish population considers prostitution a form of violence against women
A survey by UJI mathematicians found that 69% of the Spanish population considers prostitution a form of violence against women. The study also shows that 79.1% of respondents agree that prostitution puts the dignity of those involved at risk.
Americans don’t just fear driverless cars will crash — they fear mass job losses
A new study reveals Americans' doubts about driverless cars go beyond safety concerns, with many fearing mass job losses and widening income inequality. Over six in ten adults would probably or definitely avoid riding in a self-driving car.
Almost a third of Gen Z men agree a wife should obey her husband
A global study of 23,000 people found that Gen Z men are more likely to agree that a wife should obey her husband and have traditional views on decision-making within a marriage. Meanwhile, Gen Z women showed less agreement with these statements compared to Baby Boomer women.
Report: US history polarizes generations, but has potential to unite
A new report from Johns Hopkins University and Millions of Conversations finds that US history is more polarizing by generation than by race or ideology. Older generations tend to admire early American history, while younger generations favor contemporary social justice movements.
New research shows God-believing ‘nones’ align more closely with religious Americans
A new study by University of Nebraska-Lincoln sociologist Philip Schwadel found that God-believing religious nones are more likely to hold conservative views than other nones. They tend to support school prayer, the death penalty, and anti-abortion laws, while opposing increased spending on welfare and education.
In Sweden, young adults feel most dissatisfied while the oldest thrive
A new study reveals that young adults in Sweden report lower life satisfaction, a weaker sense of meaning, and higher levels of loneliness, anxiety, and depression compared to older age groups. In contrast, older Swedes are among the happiest in the world, with strong close relationships and less loneliness.
Worrying rise in self-harm among adolescents, with trans, gender diverse and early school leavers most at risk
Research found that rates of poor mental health and suicide attempts have largely recovered, but repeated self-harm is increasing, especially among females. Trans and gender-diverse young people and early school leavers are particularly vulnerable to mental distress.
The most prominent trend in Holocaust commemoration worldwide is a growing focus on the rescuers of Jews
A growing trend in Holocaust commemoration worldwide is the establishment of museums and exhibitions honoring the Righteous Among the Nations, heroes who risked their lives to save Jews from extermination. These initiatives aim to preserve Jewish heritage, commemorate the memory of the Holocaust, and combat racism and antisemitism.
Why U.S. middle-aged adults are falling behind peers abroad
A new study finds that U.S. middle-aged adults experience higher loneliness, depressive symptoms, and poorer memory and physical strength compared to peers in Nordic Europe. This decline is largely attributed to the lack of comprehensive family policies, inadequate healthcare access, and rising income inequality.
Public views about opioid overdose and people with opioid use disorder
A 2025 survey found that U.S. adults view opioid overdose as a serious problem, with differing opinions on who is responsible for reducing overdose rates. The study suggests varying preferences for future actions to address overdose among conservatives, moderates, and liberals.
Learning about public consensus on climate change does little to boost people’s support for action, study shows
A new study based on data from Germany found that learning about widespread public support for climate action policies initially makes people think such policies are more politically feasible, but these effects are small and short-lived. The study challenges common expectations about the power of public consensus to drive climate action.
Hobbies don’t just improve personal lives, they can boost workplace creativity too
A study by researchers from the University of East Anglia found that leisure crafting interventions can improve work outcomes, including creativity and meaning, in working adults. Participants who engaged in hobbies reported feeling more fulfilled and creative at work, with a stronger impact on older employees.
"Where are you going all alone?" Men as victims of verbal harassment through virtual reality
A recent study using virtual reality found that men who embodied a female avatar subjected to catcalling experienced strong feelings of anger and disgust, closely linked to moral disapproval. This type of reaction reflects the ability to put oneself in the victim's shoes and indicates moral disapproval of the behavior.
Call your pop-pop: Unlocking conversations between generations
Researchers study topics most frequently discussed with grandchildren, revealing cultural and gender differences. The study highlights the importance of investing in well-being for both grandparents and grandchildren, showing that digital communication is a valuable way to maintain relationships.
Among psychologists, AI use is up, but so are concerns
The American Psychological Association's 2025 Practitioner Pulse Survey reveals that two-thirds of psychologists worry about AI's impact on patients and society. Most common uses of AI among psychologists include administrative support and task automation.
5G home internet challenges Australia's National Broadband Network, but mass shift still a way off: study
A study from RMIT University found that most Australians who have 5G are content with it, but few actively seek it out or plan to switch in the short term. The survey of 2,112 people revealed that 5G is quietly spreading through routine phone upgrades rather than big consumer shifts.
What’s it take to be Santa? New research shows that even atypical candidates can be successful in the role
A new study of professional Santas found that diverse individuals can succeed in the role despite lacking typical attributes. Atypical Santas have found ways to surmount the odds and become successful in their chosen profession.
FAU study finds connection between poor mental health and dark web use
A new FAU study reveals significant mental health differences between dark web users and surface web users, with dark web users reporting substantially higher levels of depressive symptoms and paranoid thoughts. The study also found substantial differences in suicidal thoughts, non-suicidal self-injury, and digital self-harm.
First Nations Australians twice as likely to be digitally excluded: report
The Mapping the Digital Gap report found that three in four First Nations people living in remote communities are digitally excluded, facing barriers to accessing and using online services. Despite an 8.7 point improvement in digital ability for First Nations people in very remote communities, the gap remains significant.
How social risk and “happiness inequality” shape well-being across nations
A 32-country analysis shows that societies with strong upward disparity suffer sharper declines in subjective well-being (SWB) when perceived societal risk rises. Conversely, societies with a strong middle class are more resilient.
Many displaced girls in Uganda trapped in cycles of sexual, physical violence
A recent study by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign professor Moses Okumu found that nearly 36% of forcibly displaced adolescent girls and young women in Kampala, Uganda, reported nonconsensual first sexual experiences, leading to cycles of sexual and physical violence. The research highlights critical gaps in comprehensive se...
How AI can rig polls
A new study reveals AI can corrupt public opinion surveys at scale, passing quality checks and flipping predicted outcomes with fake responses. The findings have significant implications for scientific research and policy-making, highlighting the need for transparency and verification of human participation.
Lighting and acoustics matter for better work environments in ICUs
A study conducted in a Japanese ICU found that healthcare workers experience reduced satisfaction and concentration due to poor lighting and excessive noise. The findings suggest that designing ICUs with improved natural light and mitigating noise can enhance worker satisfaction, productivity, and quality of patient care.
Childfree people exist in developing countries
A study published in PLOS One found that childfree people exist in developing countries, with varying prevalence rates across regions. The researchers analyzed data from over 2 million people in 51 countries and found a strong link between human development and childfree rates.
Study finds Kansas City fare-free bus policy attracted new riders, increased overall use
A study by the University of Kansas found that Kansas City's zero-fare bus policy attracted 17% of respondents who started using bus service, particularly among younger people and white residents. The policy also increased overall bus use, with new users without vehicle access making more trips per week than those with access.
APA poll reveals a nation suffering from stress of societal division, loneliness
A majority of U.S. adults report feeling isolated and stressed due to societal division, with nearly seven in 10 saying they need more emotional support. The survey found that loneliness can have real consequences for stress management and health, highlighting the importance of connection and social support.
Digital divide narrows but gaps remain for Australians as GenAI use surges
GenAI use is narrowing the digital divide in Australia, but significant gaps persist among remote and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The study found that Australians aged 18-34, Indigenous peoples, and those with lower digital skills are more likely to use GenAI.
Starting university boosts recycling and greener travel, a University of Bath study finds
A University of Bath study found that starting university leads to increased recycling and green travel habits. Values and supportive infrastructure play key roles in driving these changes.
BfR Consumer Monitor: Not many people are concerned about raw milk
According to the BfR Consumer Monitor, only 10% of respondents expressed concern about raw milk's health risk. Raw milk can transmit pathogens, posing a risk to vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Healthy adults also face an increased risk of mild to severe food poisoning from unboiled raw milk.
Housing associations more effective than government in supporting unemployed in deprived areas
A new study by University of East Anglia finds that housing associations are more effective than government work programmes at helping the long-term unemployed in deprived areas. The research suggests a person-centred approach with strength-based and long-term support is key to success.
Research team explores inclusion at conferences
A Bielefeld study analyzes audience questions and survey responses from over 1,300 participants to identify barriers to inclusion at scientific events. Small measures such as behavioral guidelines and free childcare options can have a significant impact on increasing diversity and equity.
Open communication only way of reaching polarized audiences, study finds
A new study published in the British Journal of Political Science found that open communication is more effective than debate-style approaches in reaching polarized audiences. The study showed that exposure to information and minimal intervention can lead to depolarizing people with extreme conspiratorial views.
Government investment lifted young people’s hopes in ‘left behind’ areas, new research shows
Targeted government investment has increased optimism among young people in disadvantaged areas, bucking national trends. Young people in Opportunity Areas reported a significant boost in confidence about training, higher education, and employment.
Major cosmetic injection survey finds safety gaps
A recent survey of 919 UK adults who received botulinum toxin injections found alarming differences in the quality of care and advice given. Despite existing requirements for qualified prescribers, many participants reported not receiving written consent forms or being informed of potential complications.
Global refugee sponsorship scheme could improve perceptions of refugees in the UK – research
A new research project found that a global sponsorship programme would improve perceptions of refugees in the UK, providing equal rights and entitlements. The existing three main schemes, Community Sponsorship, Homes for Ukraine, and Communities for Afghans, have shown success despite disparities in scale and approach.
How Ukraine keeps society going despite the war
A study from Linköping University reveals that Ukraine's ability to maintain public services during the war can be attributed to the collaboration between citizens and authorities. The researchers highlight the importance of trust within society in creating a robust and credible response to crises like war.
Gender, language and income biases limit contributions to scientific, English-language journals
A study published in PLOS Biology found that women from lower-income countries with non-English first languages publish 70% fewer papers than men, while non-native English speakers at early career stages outperform native English speakers. The authors call for an effort to consider these factors when assessing scientists' performance.
Job demand, not just skills, shapes public attitudes on immigration
A recent study published in the Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies found that public attitudes towards immigration are shaped by job demand rather than just skill level. The research showed that citizens in both England and Japan were more likely to grant visas to workers in high-demand occupations, regardless of their skill level.
Survey across the Global South sheds new light on support for climate policies
A new survey across seven large countries in the Global South reveals both depth of climate knowledge and trade-offs citizens face when weighing climate policies against other urgent needs. Strong support is found for earmarking revenues from carbon taxes for health and education programs.
“Cracks in the system” driving high suicide rates for autistic people
A new study reveals that autistic individuals identify loneliness, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness as key factors contributing to their suicidal thoughts. The research highlights the need for improved access to support services and reduced stigma within society.
Global study reveals how patients view medical AI
A global study surveyed 14,000 patients across 43 countries, finding that those in poorer health were more likely to reject AI. Patients preferred explainable AI and wanted clinicians to make final decisions.
Local news services need to adapt or face extinction: report
A new report from RMIT University and the University of Canberra proposes that local news organisations must adapt to their audiences' shifting news habits. The report recommends embracing community-driven content, including hyperlocal news, human-interest stories, and practical information.