The average adult has not spoken to their neighbors in three weeks, although millions still enjoy posting passive-aggressive messages about them on social media community pages. A study of 2,000 adults in the United Kingdom discovered that 56 percent of those in local online groups encounter sniping and mudslinging, with 34 percent describing it as pure entertainment.
Additionally, 47 percent have shared information with friends and family about certain posts because they were either outrageous or amusing. Nearly a third (31%) of adults are friends with a neighbor on Facebook, while only 17 percent follow at least one on Instagram. The study, commissioned by mobile network giffgaff to examine the level of community spirit throughout the U.K., also found that one in 20 participants cannot remember the last time they spoke to their next-door neighbor face-to-face.
Interestingly, when it comes to communicating about issues such as loud dogs, inappropriate parking, and litter, 18 percent find it easier or prefer to voice their thoughts online rather than approaching a neighbor to discuss the matter in person.