Instagram is testing a new ‘dislike’ or ‘downvote’ feature in its comment section, sparking heated discussions among users. While some believe it could help filter out spam and irrelevant comments, others worry about the potential for increased cyberbullying, mental health issues, and online toxicity.
With no official announcement from Instagram about a full rollout, many users have already spotted the feature in testing. This update comes amid broader policy changes at Meta, Instagram’s parent company, signaling a shift toward community-driven content moderation.
How Does Instagram’s ‘Dislike’ Feature Work?
The new feature appears as a downward arrow next to the ‘like’ button in the comment section of posts. Unlike the like count, which is visible to all, the number of dislikes remains hidden from public view. This suggests that Instagram may be experimenting with a more private feedback system, similar to the one found on Reddit.
While Reddit uses downvotes to influence content ranking, it is unclear how Instagram plans to use this feature. If implemented permanently, it could help moderate toxic comments, but critics argue it could also become a tool for negativity.
User Reactions: Widespread Concern Over Cyberbullying and Mental Health
Since news of the dislike button surfaced, social media users have voiced strong opinions—mostly negative. Many believe that introducing a way to downvote comments will increase hostility online rather than improve discussions.
One Instagram user commented, “This is just another way to make people feel bad. Social media already has too much negativity.”
Another user commented “They Bringing Back Bullying”?
Others expressed concern about the impact on mental health, particularly among young users who already struggle with the pressure of social media validation.
“Instagram should focus on stopping online hate, not adding features that encourage it,” one person wrote.
Another user pointed out the potential for abuse, saying, “People will downvote comments just to be mean. This won’t help anyone.”
While some believe the feature could be useful for filtering out spam or offensive content, most feel that it will do more harm than good.
Meta’s Bigger Shift: Removing Fact-Checkers and Changing Moderation Policies
This new feature is part of a larger shift in Meta’s content moderation policies. Recently, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that Facebook and Instagram will be removing fact-checkers and replacing them with community-based moderation tools, similar to X (formerly Twitter).
In a video announcement, Zuckerberg said Meta would focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying policies, and promoting free speech. He also confirmed that the company would relocate its trust and safety teams from California to Texas, a move many see as an effort to make the platform more politically neutral.
Meta has faced criticism in the past for censoring certain viewpoints, and this policy shift is seen by some as a way to appeal to conservative audiences. However, critics argue that removing fact-checkers could lead to an increase in misinformation.
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The Bigger Picture: Does Instagram Really Need a Dislike Button?
While Instagram may argue that the dislike button will help improve comment sections, many believe it will have the opposite effect. The platform has already been criticized for its negative impact on mental health, particularly among teenagers and young adults.
Studies have shown that social media can contribute to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues, especially when users feel judged based on likes and engagement. Adding a dislike button may only increase this pressure.
Some users have suggested alternative solutions, such as:
✅ Stronger AI moderation to detect hate speech and harmful comments
✅ Giving users more control over who can comment on their posts
✅ Expanding mental health resources and anti-cyberbullying tools
Instead of encouraging negative engagement, many believe that Instagram should focus on creating a safer and more positive online environment.
Final Thoughts: Will Instagram Move Forward with the ‘Dislike’ Feature?
Instagram is currently in the testing phase, and it remains unclear whether the dislike button will become a permanent feature. Given the backlash, the platform may choose to modify or abandon the idea altogether.
What do you think? Will a dislike button improve conversations on Instagram, or will it lead to more negativity and cyberbullying? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
