A recent survey conducted among over 10,500 members of the National Education Union (NEU) has revealed that extreme online content and personalities are provoking racist, misogynistic, and hateful behaviors in students. According to the findings, social media use is linked to issues such as decreased concentration (71%), negative impacts on mental health (67%), and sleep deprivation (66%) among students.
The survey also highlighted that more than half of teachers (56%) believe that extreme online content is contributing to misogynistic behavior in pupils, while a similar percentage (52%) attribute it to racist behavior. Additionally, a significant number of teachers noted that their students are influenced by homophobic or transphobic content (45%) and conspiracy theories or misinformation (43).
Secondary school students were found to be approximately twice as likely to exhibit hateful views compared to their counterparts in primary schools. Furthermore, the survey indicated a rise in teachers facing abuse, with almost two-thirds reporting verbal assaults from students in the past year. Notably, nearly one in ten teachers disclosed experiencing sexualized comments from pupils, a figure that rises to 19% in secondary schools.
Concerningly, a considerable number of female teachers (19%) reported encountering misogyny in classrooms, while 13% of Black teachers stated they have faced racial abuse from students. One teacher expressed how online-learned racist and homophobic language is becoming normalized within educational settings.
Moreover, the survey highlighted that more than half of teachers (55%) believe that social media usage is fueling bullying and harassment within schools. Teachers emphasized that bullying now extends beyond school premises, affecting students at home and causing breakdowns in friendship groups due to online gossip and rumors.
An overwhelming 98% of teachers expressed support for strict regulations on tech firms to safeguard children from addictive algorithms. The Government is currently exploring the possibility of implementing measures such as a social media ban, restrictions on addictive apps, or overnight curfews to address online harms.
In response to these issues, NEU General Secretary Daniel Kebede emphasized the negative impact of addictive social media algorithms on children, leading to harmful behaviors influenced by online content. He stressed that the responsibility to address these challenges lies not only with schools and parents but also with the regulation of tech companies to protect young people.
The government acknowledged the alarming statistics and emphasized the importance of taking decisive action to ensure children’s safety online. Stringent online safety laws have been implemented, requiring platforms to remove illegal content and protect children from harmful material. Additionally, guidance has been issued to promote mobile phone-free environments in schools, and consultations are ongoing to consider stronger measures such as a social media ban or curfew for children.
The NEU conducted an online survey of 10,578 teacher members and 3,230 support staff members in state schools across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland between February 5 and 16.
