Many young users today have been using the online landscape for various needs. However, there has been a growing number of cases where young people, especially teenagers, are engaging in digital self-harm.
Just what is digital self-harm exactly? In contrast to cyberbullying, which involves abusing others online, this act mostly revolves around posting damaging content about themselves. These actions were first identified in 2010 and have been rising ever since. The case even begins to affect younger individuals between 2019 and 2021.
These actions generally include posting or sharing hurtful content anonymously on social media. According to a study conducted by researchers at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, teenagers aged 13 to 17 partake in such acts.
“This upward trajectory, particularly among specific demographic groups, highlights the need for targeted interventions,” one of the researchers explained. They also further highlight the importance of their research showing strong similarities between digital self-harm and suicidality. The data emphasizes individuals under racial minorities, young women, and non-heterosexual people are more likely to engage in these acts.
There are also many reasons why digital self-harm occurs. Co-author and professor Sameer Hinduja explained, “The motivations driving this behavior vary, but can include self-hatred, attention-seeking, the desire to look cool, dark humor, or a cry for help.”
Hinduja also added, “It is also crucial to understand why young people engage in digital self-harm and helm them develop healthier coping mechanisms.” Hinduja and other researchers aim to spread the study to all parents, educators, and mental health professionals, in hopes of extending support to people experiencing online abuse.
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