The Misconception of Creative and Corrective Insight for Cyber Bullying

Defining Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying involves using digital platforms such as social media, messaging apps, or websites to harass, intimidate, or harm another person. This can include sending threatening messages, spreading rumors, posting embarrassing photos or videos, and deliberately excluding someone from online groups. The impact of cyberbullying can be severe, leading to emotional distress, mental health issues, and even, in extreme cases, self-harm or suicide.

Misconstruing Creative and Corrective Insight for Cyberbullying

In today's digital age, the line between providing constructive feedback or creative insights and cyberbullying can often become blurred. This confusion can occur when individuals mistake well-intended suggestions or critical analysis for personal attacks. Instead of considering the feedback's validity, they may perceive it as cyberbullying, which hinders meaningful discourse and improvement.

A Focus On The National Bread Video Clip

Consider a scenario where a video was posted online to illustrate the uneven distribution of resources in Nigeria. The video showed a loaf of bread divided among ten people, with the first person receiving almost 50%, while the last received less than 1%. This visual representation aimed to highlight the disparity in how the country's petroleum resources are shared, leaving the majority in poverty.

While the video's message was clear and impactful, a member of the WhatsApp group noticed a significant issue: the lack of cultural diversity in the video clip. All participants were wearing Yoruba caps, representing only one ethnic group in a country known for its rich cultural diversity. The viewer, a member of the group, pointed this out to the video's sharer, suggesting the inclusion of various ethnic groups to better represent Nigeria's rich cultural diversity. Additionally, so that the visuals would have its much-needed outreach as diversity in the attire can easily make the clip more appealing to all Nigerians, not just one ethnic group. The viewer was only trying to be sensitive to issues that can further lead to reduced inclusiveness among other ethnic groups, particularly major ethnic groups that are already feeling disenfranchised, just to ensure equity and fairness in the land.

The Response and Accusation of Cyberbullying

Instead of appreciating the feedback, the video's sharer accused the viewer of cyberbullying. This reaction underscores a common issue in digital interactions: misinterpreting constructive feedback as a personal attack. The sharer's defensive stance reflects a broader problem where any form of critique is seen as hostile rather than helpful.

Analyzing the Situation

The viewer's intention was to enhance the video's accuracy and inclusivity by suggesting more diverse representation and verifying information sources. However, the sharer perceived these comments as antagonistic, illustrating the difficulty in accepting constructive feedback online.

Differentiating Creative and Corrective Insight from Cyberbullying

To avoid such misunderstandings, it is essential to distinguish between creative or corrective insight and cyberbullying:

1. Intent: Creative and corrective insights aim to improve or refine content, while cyberbullying seeks to harm or belittle.
2. Tone: Constructive feedback is typically respectful and objective, whereas cyberbullying involves aggressive or derogatory language.
3. Focus: Constructive feedback targets specific aspects of the content or behavior, not the individual's character.

Conclusion

In the digital age, fostering open and constructive dialogue is crucial for growth and understanding. Individuals should approach feedback with an open mind, recognizing the intent behind it, while those providing feedback should do so respectfully and thoughtfully. Mislabeling constructive criticism as cyberbullying stifles meaningful conversation and improvement.

This case emphasizes the importance of clear communication and the need to cultivate an environment where feedback is viewed as an opportunity for growth rather than an attack. By understanding and respecting the difference between creative or corrective insight and cyberbullying, we can create a more inclusive and constructive online space.

Attached herewith is the video below for your viewing, analysis and unbiased comment on if you think the viewer has bullied the sharer.

Warm regards