Modern society is experiencing a digital revolution, especially after the pandemic, the use of smartphones and social media has become ubiquitous among teenagers. In this era, bullying takes the form of online trolling, which has multiple and profound effects on the mental health of teenagers. Trolling is the online act of deliberately provoking or antagonizing users in order to elicit particularly desirable or negative responses. The increased frequency of trolling is facilitated by the anonymity of social media platforms, and it also becomes a form of attention-seeking, entertainment, revenge and boredom-coping behavior among young people by creating and sharing offensive messages or comments, spreading rumours, excluding victims and harassment. The consequences can lead to anxiety, depression, social isolation, trauma, eating disorders, substance use, conduct problems, body dysmorphia, negative self-perception, low self-esteem, body image problems or even more tragic outcomes such as self-harm and suicide attempts in vulnerable individuals. .
Happiness is increasingly defined by numerous likes and supported positive comments. As a result, teenagers struggle with feeling confident and comfortable about their bodies. In addition, they begin to endlessly compare themselves to others, not only regarding their bodies and self-image, but also in all other aspects of their lives and relationships. Trolling on social media affects teenage girls more than boys. They feel compelled to use Photoshop filters and editing tools, which allow them to digitally change the way they look by removing acne and scars, making their waists slimmer and legs longer, removing fat and giving them the perfect body shape, which digitally looks attractive to others. The irresistible constant desire for an unattainable and absolutely perfect body appearance is not healthy because it increases the feeling of insecurity and dissatisfaction with oneself and lowers self-confidence. Compliments that are sought for an excessively altered and photoshopped image, create a feeling of disparity between the real self and the ideal self, which further distances a person from acknowledging and nurturing the real self. Strategies to promote positive body image and self-concept among teenagers when they experience trolling: 1. Education and awareness: Promoting digital literacy and empathy, teaching teens to recognize and respond appropriately to trolling, and forming and enabling support groups and systems where targeted teens can engage in open dialogue about mental health issues arising from online harassment.
Includes:
- Familiarize them with already available resources and guidelines
- Encouraging the development and practice of appropriate digital etiquette
- Enforcing strict moderation rules and regular monitoring actions
- Educate them about legal ways to hold trolls accountable for their actions
2. Reach out for help: If you experience or notice someone with body image issues and symptoms of anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem and other mental health issues due to trolling, don’t hide it and seek help early. Reach out to close friends, family members and teachers, and seek help from professional psychologists and psychiatrists.
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3. Allow them to express themselves: Parents are encouraged to allow their children to talk about their experiences with social media and provide them with a comfortable and safe, non-judgmental space that facilitates the expression of their emotions. 4. Appreciate unfiltered posts: Encouraging and appreciating unfiltered photos on social media would make them feel comfortable with their actual body image and increase self-acceptance.
5. Explain the effects of puberty: Normalize puberty changes and that weight gain is a healthy and normal part of development, which reduces self-shame and shyness. 6. Promoting self-acceptance and self-compassionate behavior: Parents can instill self-acceptance and body positivity in order to be good role models for their children. It also empowers them to value their unique talents, abilities and skills, which promotes self-kindness and meaningful relationships with their bodies and self-image.
7. Build emotional resilience: Provide children and teens with strong coping strategies to improve their ability to respond to stressful situations or crises. Help them to be responsible online participants, to take advantage of social media in a healthy way. (Authors: Co-authors Dr. Puneet Dwevedi, Head – Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences and Vandita Sharma, Consultant – Clinical Psychologist, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram)
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Source: newstars.edu.vn