In this era of social media and video streaming platforms, video and written content play a pivotal role in influencing and shaping people's thoughts and perceptions. These content appear in our feeds, discover pages, or For You pages, primarily driven by algorithms or boosted by paid promotions targeting specific audiences. Whether organic or paid, this content can have both positive and negative impacts on individuals.
For example, when someone consumes informative, positive, and authentic content, it can inspire them to adopt a more constructive outlook on life and contribute to the betterment of society. On the other hand, consuming mindless and meaningless content, a prevalent issue today, can have a more damaging effect. In 2024, the term "Brainrot" became widely popular, highlighting the effect of consuming excessive negative or frivolous content. This phenomenon occurs when the brain's ability to comprehend, reason, focus, and regulate emotions diminishes, leaving an individual feeling numb or detached.
Aside from this, a more insidious problem exists today: modern yellow journalism. With the rise of content creators seeking views and clout, driven by financial incentives, some creators intentionally target vulnerable audiences—particularly those influenced by "incel" or "red pill" content. In these cases, creators dehumanise and vilify women, not necessarily through compromising positions, but through their behaviour, speech, or dress. These creators attack women merely for not conforming to a particular worldview.
The real issue is not just the harmful content itself, but the response it elicits in the comment sections. What is even more troubling is that both men and women join in to encourage this toxic behaviour, bashing the target to the point where their self-esteem is permanently shattered, causing long-lasting psychological damage. The experience becomes traumatic, as these humiliating attacks are often publicly visible, leaving the victim feeling exposed and powerless.
One infamous example is the case of an assault victim who endured a brutal beating from her husband, leaving her in the ICU for months with permanent facial deformities. Although many people rallied around her in support, rumours surfaced when it was revealed that this was her second marriage. Some accused her of being a "gold digger" and unfairly blamed her for her own abuse, with some even suggesting that she "deserved" it. This was followed by degrading, dehumanising content aimed at her, further reinforcing the victim-blaming narrative.
The question we must ask ourselves is: Even if some of these accusations were true, did she deserve to be beaten and dehumanised in such a way? Why couldn't people distinguish between the wrongdoings of her and her husband, instead of dehumanising her entirely? Her actions, regardless of their moral implications, should never be seen as justifications for violence or abuse.
Another example that comes to mind is a video of a woman at a concert, filmed without her knowledge, sitting on someone's shoulder. The video was accompanied by a caption that read, "Salt looks like sugar and w****s look like angels." Objectively, there was nothing morally wrong with her behaviour—it was simply an action that defied the norms of Bangladeshi society, which is deeply conservative in nature. Yet, the internet magnified this seemingly innocuous act, scrutinising her every move and dissecting her every word. Why is it that every random action performed by women is placed under a microscope, evaluated and judged based on societal expectations?
THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN AMPLIFYING TOXICITY
This issue is a direct result of modern social media dynamics. Platforms designed to increase engagement often reward controversial or divisive content, which can easily lead to public shaming, degradation, and victimisation. Many creators, in the pursuit of clout, deliberately produce sensationalist content that preys on the insecurities and biases of their audience. This creates an environment where negativity, judgment, and dehumanisation thrive.
SOLUTIONS TO COUNTERACT THIS HARMFUL TREND
Social media platforms should take greater responsibility for regulating harmful content. They can implement stricter guidelines for content creators who engage in dehumanising behaviour or victim-blaming.
Additionally, algorithms can be adjusted to prioritise positive, educational, and empowering content, reducing the visibility of harmful or malicious posts.
It is important to educate the public, especially younger generations, about media literacy and the impact of consuming unverified, harmful content. Schools, influencers, and content creators should work together to foster critical thinking skills that help individuals discern the difference between genuine advice and toxic rhetoric.
Platforms must establish better support systems for those who fall victim to online harassment. Providing resources for counseling, mental health support, and creating easy ways for victims to report abuse can make a significant difference in mitigating the psychological effects of public shaming.
Social media creators and influencers should take on the responsibility of promoting empathy, kindness, and respect for others. By modeling positive behaviour and avoiding sensationalism, content creators can contribute to healthier, more inclusive online spaces.
Public figures and influencers who engage in dehumanising or abusive behaviour should be held accountable. This includes flagging and removing harmful content, issuing public apologies, and encouraging the deconstruction of toxic ideologies.
Social media should prioritise content that encourages open dialogue and diverse viewpoints, while discouraging content that polarises or villainises individuals based on subjective judgments.
By fostering a more respectful, informed, and supportive online culture, we can work towards mitigating the damaging effects of toxic content and ensuring that people—especially women—are not subject to public shaming, abuse, or exploitation. The goal is not just to stop the spread of harmful content but to actively work towards a more compassionate and understanding digital environment.
Naznin Akther is a student of the Law Department at Premier University Chittagong
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