Not a psychologist or even an academic here, but I’ll point out that the effects that you describe on the whistelblower are exactly the same as when actively trying to break up echo chambers. There are some real parallels here. Echo chambers are like “environmental liars”, not purposeful, but they put (presumably) incorrect notions in peoples’ heads which is something that none of us deal well with.
Over the last eight years I made a project for myself to interject contrary opinions (which I could back up) into conversations that I felt were turning this way among friends, family, and online communities. I’ve felt very similar backlash to what you describe and its affected me in similar ways. I am now very loathe to push back it on all subjects except for ones where I feel I am a true expert. It simply takes far too much emotional payment.
If you’re going to look for research, maybe that’s a direction to look as well? Could well be two sides of the same coin.
Not a psychologist or even an academic here, but I’ll point out that the effects that you describe on the whistelblower are exactly the same as when actively trying to break up echo chambers. There are some real parallels here. Echo chambers are like “environmental liars”, not purposeful, but they put (presumably) incorrect notions in peoples’ heads which is something that none of us deal well with.
Over the last eight years I made a project for myself to interject contrary opinions (which I could back up) into conversations that I felt were turning this way among friends, family, and online communities. I’ve felt very similar backlash to what you describe and its affected me in similar ways. I am now very loathe to push back it on all subjects except for ones where I feel I am a true expert. It simply takes far too much emotional payment.
If you’re going to look for research, maybe that’s a direction to look as well? Could well be two sides of the same coin.