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The psychologist explained the phenomenon of niche among zoomers

Citizen Psychologist: Niche communities help zoomers reduce information noise
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Photo: IZVESTIA/Sergey Lantyukhov
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Experts revealed the trend towards niche and explained the reasons for the departure of zoomers to narrow online communities, as well as their use of specific slang or memes. All the details are in the Izvestia article.

Choosing niche memes and words

The spread of niche slang and memes among Russian youth is dictated by the need for self-identification. Philologist Alyona Popova, in a conversation with Izvestia, noted that modern online interest communities have replaced professional and dialect markers that used to divide people into "friends" and "strangers." Language fragmentation has become a long-term trend associated with the disintegration of a unified information field.

Digital platforms work as language incubators, where, thanks to algorithms, new words quickly transcend narrow groups. At the same time, specific vocabulary exists in parallel with the literary norm, without displacing it from official and intergenerational communication. If a niche word becomes significant to a wide audience, it can gain a foothold in the language, although most expressions disappear along with the communities that gave rise to them.

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"The speed of distribution is explained by the instant delivery of new words through algorithms that push similar content to similar users," Popova explained.

Psychological aspects of niche

Psychologist Alexandra Grazhdanov, in an interview with Izvestia, stressed that zoomers choose narrow groups to combat information overload. With an abundance of data, niche communities help reduce noise and create a predictable environment where the risk of negative evaluation is minimal. This is especially important for people with social anxiety, as it allows them to feel safe and supported.

However, excessive isolation in such groups can lead to the formation of an "echo chamber" effect. In this case, a person's horizons are limited, and their identity becomes too narrow and dependent on the approval of specific participants. The expert added that niche is a natural form of social organization in the digital age, which can be both a resource and a limitation.

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"In such conditions, such communities become a way to somehow reduce the information noise, find people with similar values and experiences, and get the feeling of "I'm not the only one,"" said the Citizen.

The impact of niche on zoomers

According to the expert, niche communities can be especially important for people with social anxiety or rejection experiences, acting as an adaptive strategy for gradually expanding their social circle.

Citizens emphasized that in a positive way, niche contributes to strengthening self-esteem, reducing feelings of isolation and forming a stable identity. This happens through support and mutual understanding within the group.

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"When a person sees that his interests and characteristics are shared by others, it strengthens his self—esteem," said the Citizen.

At the same time, the expert pointed out the possible risks. In particular, when confined within the same environment, an "echo chamber" effect can form, limiting horizons and increasing dependence on approval.

Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»

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