Tolerance of online hate behaviour among young adults: an empirical analysis

Abstract

Access to the Internet is associated with many risks for young people, including exposure to hate speech or haterade. The prevalence of this type of speech may reduce the sensitivity of young online users to this problem. Sometimes young people express indifference towards hate speech on the internet, and sometimes even find it funny or attractive. The aim of this article was to indicate the level of tolerance of hate behaviour among young adults. The research hypothesis was that young adults, despite frequent encounters with haterade and hate speech, are characterised by a low level of tolerance of online hate behaviour. Survey research was conducted to verify the hypothesis. The empirical research confirms the hypothesis. Young adults do not tolerate activities aimed at insulting, intimidating or offending other Internet users.