Is the pressure to conform the same or different in online groups? What do researchers believe is behind these similarities or differences?

The pressure to conform in online groups can be both the same and different compared to in-person groups. Researchers believe that the anonymity and distance provided by online interactions can lead to a reduced fear of social rejection, which may decrease the pressure to conform in some cases. On the other hand, the presence of social media algorithms and the desire for validation from online peers can also create a unique pressure to conform in online groups. Additionally, the ability to curate and control one's online persona may lead to a heightened pressure to conform to certain online norms and expectations. Overall, the pressure to conform in online groups is influenced by a combination of factors, including anonymity, social validation, and the ability to control one's online image.