In the age of the ubiquitous Internet, interpersonal relationships are also moving into the virtual world. Unfortunately, with the development of technology, the scale of cyberbullying is increasing, affecting more and more people, especially women in relationships.
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is aggressive behavior carried out through the Internet and new technologies. It includes a wide range of activities such as:
- Harassment: sending offensive messages, threats, publishing compromising content.
- Stalking: online tracking, controlling online activity, hacking into accounts.
- Blackmail: threatening to make intimate information, photos or videos public.
- Sexual harassment: sending unwanted sexual content, sexual propositions.
- Impersonation: creating fake profiles, impersonating a partner/partner.
Cyberbullying in relationships – the hidden face of control and manipulation
Cyberbullying in relationships is specific in nature. The perpetrator often uses trust, intimacy and access to private information to control and manipulate the victim. Online violence can be a continuation of physical or psychological abuse, but can also occur on its own.
Why are women more likely to be victims of cyberbullying in relationships?
There are many factors that contribute to the fact that women are more likely to be victims of cyberbullying in relationships. These include:
- Gender stereotypes: women are often seen as weaker and more vulnerable to manipulation.
- Inequalities in access to technology: women in some cultural circles have limited access to technology and knowledge about online safety.
- Normalizing violence against women: in many societies, violence against women is still downplayed or excused.
Examples of cyberbullying in relationships:
- Partner controls partner’s social media activity, demands passwords to accounts.
- The partner tracks his partner’s location using an app on his phone.
- Partner threatens to make intimate photos or videos public.
- Partner sends offensive messages or comments.
- Partner impersonates partner online.
The effects of cyberbullying: scars that don’t heal so easily
Cyberbullying has serious consequences for victims. Experiencing online violence can lead to:
- Mental health problems: depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts.
- Social isolation: victims often withdraw from contact with relatives and are ashamed to ask for help.
- Difficulties in learning and work: concentration problems, decreased motivation, absenteeism.
- Loss of trust in people: difficulties in building healthy relationships in the future.
Legal consequences for perpetrators:
It is important to remember that cyberbullying is a crime. Perpetrators can face legal consequences, such as:
- Fine
- Restriction of liberty penalty
- Imprisonment
Where to look for help? You are not alone!
Victims of cyberbullying should not be afraid to ask for help. There are many organizations and institutions that offer support:
- Blue Line: a nationwide telephone number for victims of domestic violence: 800 120 002
- Women’s Rights Center: offers legal and psychological assistance to women experiencing violence.
- Feminoteka Foundation: conducts activities to prevent violence against women.
- Police: in case of cyberbullying, you can report to the police.
Summary
Cyberbullying in relationships is a serious problem that affects many women. It is important to remember that victims are not alone and can count on help. Increasing awareness of cyberbullying, education and appropriate responses to this phenomenon are key to combating this problem.
