Gabbie Romano is an active member of the “Bagels Who Discuss” Facebook group, where she engages in discussions and offers advice and support. She turned to smaller social media platforms like Facebook Groups and subreddits after experiencing negativity and comparison on Instagram, leading her to delete the app. This shift in social media usage reflects a larger trend of users migrating to smaller, more intimate online spaces in search of community and connection. These small platforms, such as Discord and topic-specific platforms like Letterboxd and Archive of Our Own, offer users the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and share common interests.
The appeal of small social platforms lies in their ability to create a sense of community and authenticity that is often lacking on larger platforms focused on entertainment and discovery. Niche online communities bring people together based on shared interests, values, and beliefs, fostering deeper connections and conversations. These smaller spaces allow users to explore sensitive topics, receive support, and engage in meaningful discussions with others who share similar views. By prioritizing community over algorithms, small platforms offer a safer and more secure environment for users to interact.
While small online spaces offer a sense of community and connection, they are not without their challenges. Just like larger platforms, niche communities can create echo chambers and normalize harmful ideas, such as misinformation and conspiracy theories. The lack of oversight and moderation in smaller spaces can make it easier for extreme viewpoints to thrive, potentially leading users down dangerous rabbit holes. Ensuring the health and safety of these communities requires active moderation and community guidelines that promote respectful and inclusive dialogue.
As users continue to seek out smaller, more community-driven online spaces, the future of social media is likely to involve a blend of big platforms and niche communities. Rather than a mass exodus from larger platforms, people are looking to carve out smaller corners of the internet where they can connect with friends and like-minded individuals. These smaller spaces are becoming increasingly important in our digital lives, offering a refuge from the noise and negativity of mainstream social media and providing a platform for authentic and meaningful interactions.
In the face of ongoing legal challenges and concerns about the influence of big tech companies, understanding and supporting smaller online communities is essential. These spaces play a vital role in creating connections, fostering community, and addressing societal needs that may be unmet by traditional news outlets or social media platforms. By prioritizing community building and inclusivity, small platforms can offer a compelling alternative to the more impersonal and superficial interactions found on mainstream social media. The future of social media may lie in the hands of these smaller, more intimate online spaces that prioritize connection and community above all else.
