The Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) hosted a tabling event to teach students about social media and interpersonal violence on March 13.
Hosted by VIP Kristen Thauer, students were given facts regarding different types of online violence and abuse. They were also asked to make their own personal commitment towards ending interpersonal violence both on social media and in their life.
“I will refrain from participating in or endorsing any form of online harassment, including spreading rumors or posting hurtful comments,” one of the examples read. “I will consider the potential impact of my words and content before sharing them online, ensuring they do not harm or offend others,” said another.
“I think this topic of social media and interpersonal violence is particularly important in today’s society as we are increasingly spending time in the virtual world,” Thauer said. “We need to know how to protect ourselves and others from harm on social media.”
According to the Pew Research Center, “approximately 75% of individuals who have experienced online abuse reported that their most recent incident occurred on social media platforms.”
Whether that platform is Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok or Facebook, users are still at risk. Research from the American Psychology Association has shown that “up to 19% of teens in the U.S. experience sexual or physical dating violence,” with social media “playing a role in facilitating such abuse.”
Rochester Institute of Technology found that at-risk youth are even more likely to experience such violence — especially retaliation — and social media escalates both online and in-person instances.
“I have personally been a victim of online harassment by an ex partner in the past,” Thauer told The Ramapo News in an email. “I think we tend to minimize what people say and do on the internet, because there is a perceived shield in between the virtual world and the real world.”
However, in the words of Thauer, “that does not mean that what happens on social media and online isn’t real.”
Online violence and abuse comes in several forms, including, but not limited to, cyberbullying, cyberstalking, grooming and unsolicited sexting. Effects from these situations can range anywhere from anxiety and depression to eating disorders and self-harm.
In order for students to prevent or handle the prevalence of online harassment, digital dating abuse and retaliatory violence, Thauer says that the first step is education. Researching and discussing these issues is something she finds very important.
As for personal tips, Thauer recommends “establishing clear boundaries with those you interact with online.”
“If someone makes you feel uncomfortable for any reason, block them,” she stated. “If things escalate into digital dating abuse or violence, do not be afraid to reach out for support both on and off campus.”
Thauer further noted, “The Office of Violence Prevention is a great place to start if you are unsure as to where to go. Don’t be afraid to report those who do or say inappropriate or unwarranted things.”
For more information or to speak to someone, head to OVP in C-216, email them at ovp@ramapo.edu or visit their website.
ajones11@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @ramapo_csi, Instagram
