October 30, 2018

Successful strategies for coping with peer pressure.

Internet technology has given rise to a culture of impatience, instant gratification and hateful and aggressive online behaviour. New technologies allow for easy and anonymous ways to hurt others without negative consequences. A study conducted by Hong Kong Polytechnic University, found that more than 50% of the city’s secondary school students have had their photos and other personal information posted on the Internet without their knowledge or permission. This unauthorized sharing of information on the Internet is called doxxing.

Doxxing is usually done to embarrass or encourage others to negatively criticize another person with the intent of causing harm or distress, usually with the intent of shaming or damaging that person’s reputation. This type of cyberbullying has had a negative effect on the social well-being of individuals, especially teenagers, according to Dr. Andrew Adler, Director of and Clinical Psychologist at the Adler Family Centre.
“Many victims feel increased emotional distress, including frustration, anger and sadness. Others may experience decreased self-esteem, social isolation and withdrawal. When these issues become more serious, they can result in serious psychological and psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety as well as suicidal thoughts,” says Dr. Adler