We often look to technology to solve cybersecurity problems, but what if the real drivers of online risk are emotional and social in nature? This presentation explores how emotional validation, peer norms, and social pressures shape what users share online, often at the expense of their digital safety. Drawing from a qualitative dissertation study on cyberpsychology and user behavior, this research focuses on how adult social media users navigate online identity, connection, and risk. Interviews with 63 participants revealed three key themes: (1) the emotional reward of social affirmation as a motivator for sharing; (2) peer pressure and group norms overriding privacy concerns; and (3) internal conflicts between digital safety and maintaining an online presence. These patterns suggest that users often know the risks but choose connection and visibility over caution. These insights represent one thematic aspect of a larger dissertation study and intentionally exclude data on cybersecurity risk perception and protective actions, which are being developed for peer-reviewed publication. By focusing on emotional drivers and social influence, this work contributes to interdisciplinary conversations on user behavior, cyberpsychology, and digital well-being, and recommends practical implications for social media platform design, cybersecurity education, and digital culture.

Authors:
Jeree Spicer, Marymount University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Jeree Spicer is a cybersecurity product manager, researcher, and founder of ReeTheCyberBoss®, with expertise in cybersecurity, cyberpsychology, cybersecurity awareness, and digital safety.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jereespicer

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