Cyberbullying and It's Effect on Mental Health - Ella C

 

Online Hate

26/10/20

This blog post explains how although social media platforms, such as Instagram, started out as a positive space full of creativity and support, it has grown to become a platform that harbors hatred and bullying. It has become an opportunity for bullies to take a step further and exhibit negative behaviour not just in person, but online. The real issue is, although cyberbullying can be easily monitored and abolished, many large companies who own these social media apps have not made the necessary changes to their software, to work towards a safer internet for adolescents. The Netflix show, ‘13 Reasons Why’ showcases multiple examples of cyberbullying. For example, in the show, a rumor is spread via social media about the show’s protagonist, Hannah Baker (Jules Halpern Associates, 2017). The events that follow illustrate the effects cyberbullying has on one’s mental health and wellbeing. A study reported that 1 in 5 Australian young people report being socially excluded, threatened, or abused online (Australian Government, 2017). Furthermore, 1 in 5 Australian young people have admitted to behaving negatively towards a peer online (Australian Government, 2017). ’13 Reasons Why’ shares a powerful message, and a valuable lesson for teenagers and their parents, regarding appropriate use of social media and the effects it can have on the health and wellbeing of adolescents.

The Catholic principle of human dignity is important for adolescents growing up with social media and technology. It must be remembered that even through an iPhone screen, each human life is considered sacred. In modern-day society, we can fall short of this principle and can be led to think less of somebody because of their race, gender, sexuality, culture, wealth, beliefs, etc. To create a more positive space online, we can utilize the delete and report features on apps and choose to ignore rather than engage in bullying and hate. To learn more, visit https://www.adl.org/education/resources/tools-and-strategies/navigating-a-digital-world-tips-for-youth-en-espanol and/or https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/cyberbullying. On a larger scale, social media companies need to address the negative behaviour occurring on their very own platforms and implement strategies to overcome it. No social media platform should tolerate cyberbullying of any form on their site.

We must raise awareness of this serious issue that is occurring right now and will continue to occur if no one acts. Comment below your take on this or continue the conversation on Facebook @saynotocyberbullying.