COVID Cancel Culture and Cyberbullying

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Teenagers have enough on their plates now-a-days with social distancing, lockdown measures, and online school without adding cancel culture's version of cyberbullying to the mix.

How is that?

Well, let's start with a definition of cancel culture. According to Wikipedia, "Cancel culture (or call-out culture) is a modern form of ostracism in which someone is thrust out of social or professional circles - either online on social media, in the real world, or both."

I've seen comments to political posts on social media and some of them are just brutal. And these are between strangers. Imagine how a person would feel reading that comment from a friend, classmate, co-worker or neighbor.

Cancel culture can be beneficial by making people aware of offensive acts or speech that have been connected to famous people or brands, but it crosses the line when dealing with our youth on social media.

What problems can cancel culture cause?

Depression, isolation and suicides have all been linked to cancel culture primarily due to shaming. Since COVID has forced people to rely on social media platforms instead of real life interactions, cyberbullying instances have increased. It is much easier to post something online in the comfort of a private home behind a keyboard and a screen than it is to say something in person.

How does this affect teenagers?

Teenagers are still learning. They really don't know everything, even though they think they do. So, when teenagers say or do something dumb online, they may get jumped on by others who are more than willing to condemn, shame and/or send death threats. They are ostracized and never get a chance to change their behavior.

What should be our goal?

Well, we should always look towards educating others. We should not be shaming, but encourage open dialogue, opportunities for reflection, and space for improvement.

How?

Don't respond in the comment section. Send a DM for a private conversation. No one likes getting called out in public.

It is okay for people to have a different opinion. Believe it or not, people used to be able to disagree with each other in a respectful manner.

We are all flawed human beings. We all make mistakes. But, shaming people can have dire consequences.

Instead, be forgiving and be kind.