How Do Adolescents Communicate Online? An Analysis of Comments Under Posts on Selected Instagram Accounts

Abstract

The article presents an analysis of the ways adolescents communicate in the online space, based on comments posted on Instagram. The starting point is the characterization of adolescence as a stage of identity formation and development of social relationships. The study analyzed 442 comments posted by teenagers aged 13 to 18, assigning them to cathegories that reflect both positive and negative forms of communication. The results indicate that young people are more likely to express sympathy, support, and positive emotions than verbal aggression, although hate speech remains a significant issue. Phenomens such as psychological violence, vulgar language, and sexualization highlight the need for preventive and educational actions aimed at promoting conscious and responsible use of social media.