The internet has undoubtedly made interaction and communication more convenient, but it has also opened the door to negative behaviors such as cyberbullying and cyberstalking.
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually have distinct differences. So, what distinguishes cyberbullying from cyberstalking?
What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying refers to the intentional and repeated use of the internet to harass, intimidate, or humiliate others. It encompasses various forms, including making derogatory remarks, spreading rumors, and unauthorized sharing of private information.
For example, in 2012, Adele, a renowned singer, experienced cyberbullying after giving birth. While she received congratulations from fans on her social media pages, she also faced negative comments targeting her appearance, weight, and postpartum depression. Shockingly, death threats were even included.
Cyberbullying has seen an increase in recent years, with adolescents being particularly vulnerable. A 2023 study published in BMC Psychiatry revealed that over 40% of adolescents in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia had experienced cyberbullying. This contrasts with a 2021 study published in JNSM, which found that 20.97% of young gamers in Saudi Arabia had encountered cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying: Understanding the Dynamics between Bullies and Victims
Multiple studies examining the dynamics between bullies and their victims reveal the existence of a power imbalance, particularly when cyberbullying takes place in a public setting. Often, the bullies outnumber the single victim, or the anonymity afforded to the bullies provides a shield against potential reprisals.
Furthermore, research, including a paper from ScienceDirect, has demonstrated that cyberbullies themselves have previously been victims of cyberbullying. This can result in feelings of helplessness and a lack of empathy towards others, ultimately leading them to target individuals they perceive as “helpless,” as many bullies seek power and validation.
It is worth noting that cyberbullies typically have no pre-existing relationship with their victims and may experience feelings of boredom and loneliness. Some individuals may even adopt a new online persona, using anonymity as a means to attack various people.
The Influence of Technology on Cyberbullying
Technology has played a dual role in the context of cyberbullying. On one hand, it has facilitated the occurrence of cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can take place at any time and be carried out by anonymous individuals. It can manifest in public spaces such as social media comment sections, as well as in private interactions through direct messages and emails.
On the other hand, technology has provided tools to combat cyberbullying. While allowing for anonymity, it has also enabled the implementation of advanced monitoring systems to detect and track instances of cyberbullying. Social media platforms, for instance, have introduced features like flagging to identify and address abusive behavior. Users can report accounts engaged in such activities.
When legal action is pursued, every online user leaves a digital footprint comprising metadata and chat logs. These digital traces can be utilized as evidence during legal proceedings and to take appropriate measures against cyberbullying.
The Impact of Cyberbullying on Victims
Regardless of the medium used, cyberbullying has profound effects on the mental well-being of its victims.
A study published by Dovepress indicates that 32% of children exposed to cyberbullying exhibit at least one symptom of stress. Public cyberbullying incidents often lead to feelings of humiliation. It is widely known that online content is challenging to erase and can be shared with others, intensifying the sense of humiliation experienced. Consequently, victims may struggle with emotions such as anger, powerlessness, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
In extreme cases, cyberbullying can have severe consequences, including self-harm and suicide.
The Legal Consequences of Cyberbullying
When a cyberbully intentionally reveals someone’s private information, such as addresses, personal files, or financial details, it constitutes a violation of privacy. The severity of the offense and the jurisdiction involved determine whether it could result in a civil or criminal lawsuit.
In cases where cyberbullies disseminate false information about an individual or entity, they may face legal action for libel (written defamation) or slander (spoken defamation).
Children are particularly vulnerable targets of online bullies. As a result, various legislations have been enacted to address cyberbullying, specifically focusing on protecting children and imposing stricter penalties on offenders.
What Is Cyberstalking?
Cyberstalking involves using electronic communication and social media platforms to harass and intimidate others.
While cyberbullying focuses on posting or sharing negative content, cyberstalkers exhibit an obsessive desire to gather information about their victims. They often manipulate and distort this information to achieve their own objectives, such as seeking revenge, exerting control, or establishing a possessive connection.
The Relationship Dynamics in Cyberstalking
Unlike cyberbullying, cyberstalking doesn’t necessarily involve a power imbalance and can occur between acquaintances, strangers, or even current or former romantic partners. The perpetrator becomes fixated on their victim and may engage in stalking behavior over an extended period.
There is often an overlap between cyberstalking and cyberbullying, with the boundaries between the two becoming blurred. A relationship between a victim and a perpetrator can initially start as cyberbullying and gradually transition into cyberstalking, or vice versa.
The Role of Technology in Cyberstalking
Technology plays a dual role in the realm of cyberstalking, both facilitating and mitigating its effects.
Cyberstalkers utilize various technological tools such as miniature cameras and other innovative mediums to monitor and harass their victims. They exploit chat rooms, social media platforms, and online channels for their intrusive behavior.
However, technology also provides us with safeguards against cyberstalking. Most social media platforms offer features to block and report abusive accounts. Additionally, individuals can monitor their online activities and receive notifications when unauthorized access to their accounts is detected.
Impact of Cyberstalking on Victims
Similar to cyberbullying, cyberstalking inflicts mental and emotional trauma on its victims, primarily due to the invasion of privacy.
The stalker typically gains unauthorized access to the victim’s personal information or closely tracks their online behavior and digital footprint. Such violations leave victims with a profound sense of violation and significantly impact their emotional well-being.
Moreover, victims of online stalking may experience a heightened need for isolation and withdraw from social activities. The fear that anyone could be their stalker, coupled with the potential public exposure of the stalker’s actions, erodes trust in personal relationships.
Legal Implications of Cyberstalking
Similar to cyberbullying, cyberstalking carries significant legal implications. In the United States, cyberstalkers can face up to five years of imprisonment and fines of up to $250,000.
While the specific laws surrounding cyberstalking may vary, many states and countries have established regulations that prohibit this form of online misconduct.
Solutions to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying
Education serves as a powerful remedy for addressing vices like cyberstalking and cyberbullying. It is crucial to stay well-informed about safeguarding your personal data and identifying inappropriate online behavior.
Furthermore, reporting cyberbully accounts to social media platforms and relevant authorities is essential for keeping them in check. With the block and report options available on many platforms, you no longer have to endure the scrutiny of cyberstalkers or the aggression of cyberbullies. Take action and report!
These offenses often carry legal consequences, so it is crucial to report them to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. Imposing severe penalties will discourage individuals from engaging in cyberstalking and cyberbullying.
Protecting Yourself from Online Harassment
Cyberstalking and cyberbullying involve harassment, intimidation, and emotional trauma for their victims. Although they differ in nature, both should be taken seriously. Both can have detrimental effects on your mental and emotional well-being. Stay vigilant, block intruders, and report perpetrators to safeguard yourself from cyberbullies and stalkers.