Do you recognize online gender-based violence? Do you know how to react to such behaviours or did you maybe experience such violence yourself?
Online gender-based violence refers to harmful actions directed at an individual or a group based on their gender. It is rooted in unequal power dynamics between genders and is often a manifestation of deep-seated societal norms and expectations. This form of violence disproportionately affects individuals based on their gender identity and contributes to the perpetuation of gender inequality. Gender-based violence can take various forms, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse.
Examples of online gender-based violence include:
Online sexual violence refers to the use of digital platforms and technologies to perpetrate sexual harm, harassment, or abuse against individuals. This form of violence involves the non-consensual sharing of explicit or intimate images, unwelcome sexual advances, cyberstalking, and other sexually explicit behaviors that occur in the online environment. Online sexual violence can manifest through various means, including social media, messaging apps, online forums, and other digital spaces.
Examples of online sexual violence include:
Online intimate partner violence refers to the use of digital technologies and online platforms as a means to exert power, control, or harm within an intimate relationship. This form of violence involves abusive behaviors carried out through digital communication channels, social media, or other online spaces. Online intimate partner violence can manifest in various ways, impacting the victim’s emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical well-being. This type of online violence reflects the intersection of traditional forms of intimate partner violence with the digital landscape.
Examples of online intimate partner violence include:
Enduring negative interactions, insults, and attacks online can create a persistent cycle of negativity. Over time, this can erode an individual’s sense of self-worth and contribute to feelings of hopelessness, a common hallmark of depression. Cyberbullying, including public humiliation and character attacks, can be particularly damaging. The shame and humiliation experienced online can translate into feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy, contributing to depressive symptoms.
Online violence often involves the violation of personal boundaries and space. The invasion of privacy or the spread of false and harmful information can trigger anger as individuals feel their personal space has been invaded. The emotional toll of online violence, including the stress, anxiety, and emotional distress it causes, can manifest as anger – individuals may express anger as a coping mechanism or as a way to communicate their emotional pain. Victims of online violence may also feel a strong desire for justice, wanting the perpetrators to be held accountable for their actions. The frustration with a perceived lack of consequences can contribute to anger.
Certain forms of online violence, such as threats or explicit harassment, can create a perception of immediate danger. This heightened sense of threat can trigger panic responses, including rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and a sense of impending doom. Online violence can lead to a state of hyperarousal, where individuals are in a constant state of alertness – victims may fear retaliation or escalating attacks, leading to a constant state of anxiety and worry. This heightened arousal, combined with the stress of online violence, can contribute to panic-like symptoms and feelings of restlessness.
Online violence often involves criticism, judgment, and negative comments directed at the individual. Individuals may be targeted for their appearance, and online violence that includes body shaming or appearance-based attacks can significantly impact self-esteem. Attacks on an individual’s identity, including aspects such as race, gender, sexual orientation, or other personal attributes, can contribute to feelings of unworthiness and shame. O nline violence can instill a fear of rejection and judgment. Individuals may become hesitant to express themselves or engage in online activities, fearing further attacks and reinforcing a negative self-concept.
Individuals who have experienced online violence may live in constant fear of further attacks. Fear of judgment, negative comments, or public humiliation may contribute to social anxiety, hindering the person’s ability to engage freely online. Individuals who have experienced severe online violence, such as doxing or threats, may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This can include flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety triggered by online interactions. Anxiety resulting from online violence can extend into offline life, affecting relationships, work, and daily activities
The shame and guilt associated with being a target of online violence can be overwhelming. The resulting loneliness and lack of support can exacerbate feelings of despair. In the absence of healthier coping mechanisms, self-harm may become a maladaptive strategy to gain a sense of control or temporary relief. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may be more vulnerable to the impact of online violence. Online attacks can exacerbate existing mental health challenges and increase the risk of self-harm.
If you feel ready, report any form of online gender-based violence to the police. You can report the incidents as yourself or anonimously.
Speak to a school counselor/youth worker/local social work centres – they can help you find professional guidance! If you experience negative feelings such as shame, when seeking advice from anyone about your options, you can ask to speak to someone else. No one deserves to be judged because of the harm that was caused to them.
If you feel ready, report any form of online gender-based violence to the police – 113 or the local social work center. You can also report any incident anonimously to law enforcement on this number: 080 12 00
You can also report online violence on the following portal: Spletno oko
In need of professional guidance, this organizations can help you:
TOM telefon (everyday between 12.00 and 20.00): 116 111
SOS telefon (24/7): 080 11 55
Portal To sem jaz
Unicef Varna točka
