In March 2021 the Cha in the City Open Group for Punjabi men met virtually to discuss the topic of social media abuse and harassment. Here are some reflections from the brilliant team who facilitate and contribute towards those conversations.
How do we use social media?
People at the forum used different social media applications for different reasons. They tended to have preferred applications for different purposes. These ranged from business/professional use to purely social.
Participants shared first and second hand experiences of negative events, trolling and bullying. Negativity manifested in different ways and at times caused severe damage to the mental health of users. It was felt that users should limit the amount of information they share about themselves and be guarded.
How can we deal with social media abuse and harassment?
Participants felt the best way to deal with trolls and bullies was to use block functions and avoid being pulled into angry exchanges. Participants discussed reporting the worst trolls to the Police but were concerned that the most committed of trolls are also effective at gas lighting and avoid using explicit language.
How can we prevent social media abuse and harassment?
Participants felt it is important that they have a life outside social media and limit their use of it. They did note that this can be more difficult for younger digital natives who have grown up with social media.
Toolkits in schools and workplaces might help guide social media users. In addition, public service announcements and advice could be shared in different forums including places of worship and community centres.