Social media platforms make sharing content very easy, and that ease can help misinformation spread quickly. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen report their study in the journal npj Complexity. PhD student Laura Jahn and Professor Vincent F. Hendricks lead the research team.
The researchers built a computer model to simulate how information moves on platforms such as X, Bluesky and Mastodon. The model shows that adding a small digital friction — a short pause before sharing — reduces the number of reshares. However, friction alone does not always improve the quality of what people share.
To change both quantity and quality, the team added a learning element, for example a brief pop-up quiz about misinformation and platform rules. When friction is combined with learning, the model shows a clear increase in the average quality of shared posts. The next step is to test the idea in real-world settings or on simulated platforms available for research.
Difficult words
- misinformation — false or incorrect information that spreads online
- friction — a small obstacle or delay in a processdigital friction
- reshare — an online repost of someone else's contentreshares
- simulate — to make a model of a real process
- model — a small system that represents real situationscomputer model
- platform — an online service where people share contentplatforms
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would a short pause before sharing change how you use social media? Why or why not?
- What short learning message or quiz would help people avoid sharing misinformation?
- Do you think social media platforms should add small delays and learning steps? Give reasons.
