UP Class 10 Board topper trolled over facial hair: Psychological impact of trolling

This was one such incident that came to light. We must not forget there are millions of kids in the country who might be subjected to such harsh trolling and stereotypes.

Here, we look at the psychological impacts of bullying and trolling on teenagers. Let us understand, step by step, how this spirals.

Undermining an individual’s sense of identity

Most teenagers are in a phase of discovering their identity by interacting with the world around them. If they are subjected to trolling at such a tender age, it may disrupt their sense of being and belonging.

Trolls attempt to provoke, upset, and emotionally harm others by posting hurtful words and posts. They prick where it hurts, judge, and mock others based on physical appearance, skills, intelligence, and more.

If teenagers are subjected to such repetitive commentary and criticism, it slowly starts becoming a part of their being. Such kids require the immediate attention of elders and the right action in the form of counselling.

Negative self-perception

In this digital era, a virtual social identity is formed by sharing one’s life on social media. Teenagers of today were born into this era, and having a social profile is almost a non-negotiable for many.

It’s often seen teenagers, especially girls, feel compelled to use filters and more to present a ‘flawless’ image of themselves. These kids are unknowingly trying to cater to a certain beauty standard set by those around them, and the Indian society at large.

If they feel they are not able to match the set standard, it could lead to negative self-perception. And, if they are trolled for who they are as they expose themselves to the world, this feeling could only get worse.

Distorted body image

Teenagers often feel curious about their changing bodies. Among peers, some may develop earlier. However, it’s often observed that some teens are subjected to constant bullying due to this.

This harrowing experience can create a distorted body image where they feel inadequate and uncomfortable about their own bodies, leading to lower self-esteem and self-worth.

Decline in academic and extracurricular performance

Teenagers who are victims of trolling and bullying generally tend to avoid social gatherings. This is because they feel they could be targeted and harassed.

In some cases, this could also lead to them missing classes and not participating in extracurricular activities as teacher supervision is minimal there.

A sudden drop in interest in attending school or unwillingness to take part in group projects can also be attributed to the negative consequences of trolling and bullying.

What can help?

The effects of trolling are widespread and often ignored. Some elders ignore what their kids are going through thinking tackling such experiences on their own will make them stronger.

This is not the case. What these parents or elders fail to understand is that the trauma the teenager is subjected to manifests in the form of anxiety, grief, and feeling displeased with their bodies. This will impact their long-term development.

Instead, if teenagers are seen to be subjected to trolling and bullying, immediate psychological help and counselling must be provided.

It’s our responsibility to nurture teens who instil accountability in their actions and have an acceptance-based approach to their peers and community at large.