A new study from the Ombudsman for Children has revealed the scale of harmful and extremist content young people in Ireland are encountering online.
The survey — the first of its kind — examined how rising extremism, racism and discrimination are affecting children, drawing on responses from 626 students across 28 secondary schools nationwide.
According to the findings, 63% of children have come across extremist views online, compared with just 6% who encountered them in real life. A quarter of students said some of their own friends hold views they would consider extreme.
Many participants linked extremist attitudes with gender, with 64% associating such views with boys and men.
The study also highlights widespread exposure to negative and discriminatory commentary:
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84% hear negative remarks about immigration and housing
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61% hear views promoting a return to “traditional” gender roles
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Over half have heard claims that men are entitled to more authority than women
The Ombudsman for Children’s Office says the research underlines the growing influence of online spaces on young people’s attitudes — and the need for stronger supports to help children navigate harmful content.
