The Dangers of Cyberbullying
The internet and technology is changing the way we do things. This is not a secret. We work, shop, bond with friends and family on the internet these days. We also express ourselves on social media. Whether its how flex on the gram our newest vacation pics or support one another with likes, we have this need to share everything on social media to be connected.
There is however, a dark side to technology which I believe is not given enough attention. Cyber bullying and online harassment. If you’ve heard of Dear Evan Hansen, the musical and movie you’ll get an idea of how tragic teenage depression and suicide is. While technology streamlines how we do things, it also leaves teenagers and even adults lonelier and isolated than ever.
The problem with cyber bullying versus real bullying is that it allows the attacker to hide behind a screen from any repercussions of their bad behavior. It also allows bullies to play things off as a “joke” and get away with being rude and mean. As an adult, I realize of course that bullies only have 4 reasons why they attack or make fun of another person. From my experience, I learned that bullies attack another because:
They are threatened by this person. This person is well liked and attractive therefore must be put in their place or destroyed by the bully. Otherwise the bully will lose their power. This is where snarky and downright rude comments, or half “jokes” are put in place to put down the attacked person’s confidence without taking liability. “You’re too sensitive” “Its a joke” etc. sound familiar? Bullies have no respect for your boundaries, and will tease you even when it is uncomfortable for you.
They want to make themselves feel good. Putting down another person or destroying another person image or reputation makes the bully’s ego dance with joy. From my experience, bullies are often the ones who are extremely insecure and aren’t really happy or content with their lives. Misery loves company. Gossiping, bashing or hating on an attractive friend’s social media or IG feed makes them feel in control and they must validate this experience by recruiting more frenemies or haters of course. Remember, you will never be criticized by someone doing better than you in life. Winners like to see each other win.
They are jealous. They want your life, simple as that. They want the handsome boyfriend or husband, the beautiful feed, the fancy dinners, the rocking body, the nice house, the awesome friends. Even when you have none of that, sometimes people just want to see you unhappy. Again, misery loves company. Instagram and social media in general reeks of envy culture. Cyber bullies are born everyday, and afflicting hurtful, rude comments as we speak. This is extremely dangerous for children and adult’s mental health.
The want to be liked by other people. By recruiting other people to join their cause of bashing or hating on another person, ruining their reputation or even acting like a victim after starting wars with other girls or boys, they become the “main character” of their narrative. Best way to deal with attention seeking bullies? Simple, ignore them and stay happy. The world is full of people who are aggressive and hateful, but there are real and genuine souls too. Real is rare, so if you find it keep it.
It doesn’t cost a cent to be kind to others. Why not support your friend’s new business, job, promotion, boyfriend or other major wins in life instead of sulking in the shadows and talking badly about them? We’ll never truly succeed as a race if we are always claw each other down to feel good. It’s cool to be kind. Kind culture always.
This article is dedicated to a friend of mine who committed suicide from cyberbullying.