Misinformation

Navigating today’s political climate as a teenager can be incredibly challenging. Whether you’ve grown up in an environment with strong political opinions or one with little discussion, you are welcome here. Our mission is to help you distinguish fact from misinformation and provide insight into topics you might not encounter elsewhere.

What is misinformation?

Misinformation takes many forms, from outright fabricated facts to skewed interpretations. Understanding how this affects you is crucial. Most of us consume information through media outlets, and for many teens, those outlets are social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or Snapchat. Political information on these platforms often follows trending patterns that can shape our perspectives.

For example, if your family leans toward a particular political party, it’s natural to adopt similar views growing up—until you start researching independently. It’s easy to believe what your family believes, right? But here’s where it gets complicated: When you connect with like-minded friends and engage with content that aligns with your views, social media algorithms feed you more of the same. This creates an echo chamber, reinforcing your existing beliefs and limiting your exposure to different perspectives.

You might feel like your political party is always right or develop a strong dislike for the opposing side, leaving your opinions feeling set in stone. But here’s the truth: It’s okay to question your parents’ views, your friends’ opinions, and even your own. Expanding your knowledge and seeking out diverse perspectives is key to becoming truly informed.

How do I research information?

The key to avoiding misinformation is to rely on trustworthy, unbiased sources. Our website provides fact-checked content to help you start your journey toward better understanding. But don’t stop there—resources like Allsides.com can help you assess the bias of different news outlets.

Here’s the catch: Misformation can still slip through even after using a bias checker. That’s why it’s important to consult multiple sources to confirm the information you come across. Relying on just one article or outlet can limit your perspective, so always cross-check what you read with other reliable sources. The more viewpoints you gather, the closer you understand the full picture.