BY MARILYN C. ARAYATA
Online bullying is on the rise. Even positive posts generate comments that belittle other people. An honest question easily earns one an unacceptable description. So does an opinion that clearly shows a stand. What happened to humanity?
Abusive verbal attacks via social media are more prevalent now that people have more access to gadgets and the Internet. The abusers are people motivated by “the need to get and keep control over someone else.” It is so easy for them to criticize or humiliate another person while hiding in a cloak of anonymity. Are these abusers feeling more powerless during this time of pandemic that they have a stronger urge to harass other people?
Experts have the following advice for individuals who are cyberbullied: BIRD, that is, Block, Ignore, Report, and Document – not necessarily in this order.
Remembering that a bully is motivated by insecurity and the need to control another individual will make it easy for you to ignore his words. Do not react! If he sees that his action annoys you, he will keep attacking you to satisfy himself. His words are trash. Don’t make yourself a repository of his trash. You are not a garbage bin.
Document the whole thing. Save screenshots and keep back up files. In case the bullying becomes repeated and intense, you will have the evidence should you decide to report it to authorities. They are equipped to trace online bullies and scammers. There are existing laws that protect citizens from cyberbullies. Abusers should get frightened.
Block the bully. That’s the best shield against any toxic pollutant. No further explanation needed. Just see to it that you have the evidence you need before blocking the person-concerned.
Rise above the bullying. Brush it aside. Boost your self-confidence, try to excel in something worthwhile, and improve your support system. As the saying goes, swim with the sharks without being eaten!
