Likes and Lows (2026)

Likes and Lows 2026 explores how social media interactions, online comparison, cyberbullying, and digital beauty standards influence self-esteem, self-worth, and overall wellbeing in the United States.

Developed in partnership with Erborian, the report examines the complex relationship between online experiences and the way people feel about themselves. Drawing on responses from a nationally representative sample of US participants, the research explores the influence of social media engagement, online validation, social comparison, cyberbullying, online safety, and the role that brands can play in supporting healthier digital environments.

Self-esteem and social media

The findings reveal that self-esteem is increasingly shaped by online experiences, with many respondents reporting that social media interactions, online feedback, and comparisons with others affect their self-esteem and sense of self-worth. The research also highlights the continued impact of unrealistic standards and curated online content, which can contribute to negative self-perception and reduced wellbeing.

Cyberbullying and digital wellbeing

Cyberbullying and online harassment remain significant concerns, with many individuals reporting experiences of abuse or uncertainty about how best to respond when faced with harmful behavior online. The findings reinforce the need for practical education and accessible support that help people navigate online challenges while protecting their emotional wellbeing.

The report also examines how people respond when online content negatively affects their self-esteem, highlighting a range of coping strategies, from taking breaks and adjusting content feeds to seeking support from others. At the same time, the research identifies a need for greater awareness of the tools and actions available to help individuals manage unhealthy online influences more effectively.

The role of brands and online culture

A key theme emerging from the study is the role of beauty brands in shaping online culture and influencing self-esteem. Respondents expressed strong support for greater transparency, realistic representation, and inclusivity, highlighting growing expectations for brands to use their platforms for good and to contribute to healthier online environments.

Building healthier digital environments

Together, these findings demonstrate that self-esteem is shaped not only by individual experiences but also by the design, culture, and expectations of the platforms and online environments people engage with every day. Likes and Lows 2026 highlights the importance of education, digital resilience, and collective action in creating online environments that support confidence, wellbeing, and positive self-esteem.

Likes and Lows 2026 forms part of Cybersmile's ongoing Insights program and supports the development of evidence-led resources and initiatives designed to help people recognize online pressures, respond to cyberbullying, and build healthier relationships with technology.

• 34% had been bullied or harassed on social media.
• 25% would just ignore bullying and hope it stops.
• 69% said their opinion of themselves was dependent on what others think of them.
• 58% said social media interactions affected how they feel about themselves.
• 66% compared themselves to others online.
• 60% said their self-esteem had been negatively affected by online content.
• 25% said their self-esteem was negatively affected when comparing themselves to others online.
• 41% said likes, comments, and engagement with their posts online had a positive impact on their self-esteem.
• 28% would either do nothing or keep engaging with something online that was negatively affecting their self-esteem.
• 30% said they were unsure or not confident to keep themselves safe online.
• 65% agreed beauty brands should promote realistic beauty standards.
• 63% agreed beauty brands should represent diverse skin tones and body types.
• 68% agreed beauty brands should support positive self-esteem and confidence.
• 65% agreed beauty brands should be transparant about editing or enhancements.
• 66% agreed beauty brands should prioritize wellbeing over unrealistic trends.
• 67% agreed beauty brands should use their platforms for good.

The research was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Cybersmile between 05.07.2026 and 05.11.2026 across the US. The sample of the study is representative of US demographics across all 50 states.

The Cybersmile Foundation (2026). Likes and Lows Report (2026): A national US report exploring the impact that social media and cyberbullying have on self-esteem and wellbeing.