Our research team conducted several experimental studies in different countries, using representative samples to test interventions aimed at encouraging pro-social behavior in response to online hostility. In these studies, some participants were shown an intervention video, which you can find an example of on this site, while others were not. Afterward, we observed how both groups behaved when interacting with an immersive mock social media platform.

We focused on key actions, such as reporting harmful content and leaving constructive comments, to see how the intervention influenced people’s responses. Our goal was to look at both immediate reactions and the longer-term effects of these interventions.

In one study, we tracked how these behaviors changed over time. This helped us understand whether the impact of the intervention lasted beyond the initial exposure. We also tested different video formats, including a longer version (1:20), 15-second, and 30-second clips. This allowed us to see how different lengths impacted participant behavior.

Participants who were shown the video were significantly more likely to report harmful content and leave constructive comments compared to those who did not see the video. In fact, they were six times more likely to take these actions, demonstrating that the video successfully encouraged pro-social behavior and helped people take action to address online hostility.

Even more importantly, the effects lasted well beyond the initial exposure. In one study, we followed participants over time and found that those who had seen the video continued to engage in positive actions—such as reporting harmful posts and speaking out against hostility—weeks later.

When looking at which video length was most successful, we found that the longer version (1:20) produced the most significant results. However, the 15-second and 30-second versions still showed meaningful improvements compared to the baseline group, proving that shorter videos can also have a significant impact.