Anonymity, Community, and Expression: Unveiling the Dynamics of Confession Pages on Facebook

Purpose: This study investigated the attributes of confession pages on Facebook, their role within social networks, and their impact on society. It also explored their defining traits, the need for confession pages and the effects of anonymity. Methodology: The research methodology involved coding 1280 posts extracted from select pages, and semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 prominent followers. Findings: Anonymity was found to be important because it helps individuals avoid social repercussions. Prominent recurring themes included formal behavior, relationships, and sexuality, topics that frequently involve social sanctions and penalties. The study also underscored the sense of community fostered by interaction between writers posting on confession pages and readers of these posts. The current study suggests that confession pages reflect society-level value preferences that shape interaction on social media according to Hofstede’s framework. Moreover, different confession groups serve to satisfy different needs, aligning with the theory of uses and gratifications in communication media. Practical implications: Engagement was shown by readers who extended offers to help and provided suggestions to support authors facing different challenges. Social implications: The motivations of anonymity for contributors to communities fostered through writer–reader interactions on the platform. Value: An in-depth examination of confession within contemporary society, redefining the contemporary landscape of confession, shedding light on its various perspectives within the public internet sphere, and thus contributing to comprehension of the different needs for anonymous expression.