Silenced by Shame: How Youth Suppress Emotional Needs Due to Toxic Positivity Culture

Abstract

This study examines the impact of toxic positivity culture on emotional suppression among youth. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 642 participants (Mage = 19.8, SD = 2.3) through surveys and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative measures included validated scales such as GAD-7 and PHQ-9, while qualitative data explored lived emotional experiences. Results revealed a strong positive correlation between social media exposure and emotional suppression (r = 0.75, p < 0.001). Regression analysis indicated that emotional suppression significantly predicted anxiety (β = 0.68, p < 0.001) and depression (β = 0.64, p < 0.001). Qualitative findings highlighted themes of shame, emotional repression, and social comparison. Social media emerged as the most influential factor, followed by family and peer expectations. The findings underscore the psychological risks associated with toxic positivity and emphasize the need for interventions promoting emotional authenticity. This study contributes empirical evidence to an emerging area of research on youth mental health and digital culture.