Cyberbullying: Online Disinhibition

Summary

The video explains the online disinhibition effect: people may communicate or behave differently online than they would face to face because online settings can weaken the usual restraints on what they say or do. This can lead to openness and support, but also to impulsive, hurtful behavior and cyberbullying.

Psychologist John Suler described two forms of online disinhibition:

• Toxic disinhibition: People act more aggressively or say mean things they might not say in person, which can make online spaces hostile.
• Benign disinhibition: People feel able to share personal or sensitive experiences and seek support, potentially creating positive connections.

Features that can contribute to online disinhibition

1. Anonymity: When others do not know who someone is, they may feel less accountable and less concerned about real-world consequences. This can encourage harmful behavior, but can also make it easier to discuss personal issues.
2. Lag time: Online communication is often not immediate. A person may post impulsively and leave before considering the consequences. Delays can also provide time to pause and think before replying.
3. Lack of nonverbal cues: Online, people often cannot see body language or facial expressions or hear tone. Without those signals, they may not notice that someone is uncomfortable or uninterested, and may be less likely to self-censor. Sarcasm and intent can also be misunderstood.

Online spaces can help people explore their identity, discuss health or relationship concerns, connect with others facing similar challenges, and organize around causes. However, online harassment and cyberbullying are common. The video cites surveys reporting that 40% of adults had experienced online harassment, 66% had witnessed it, and 59% of teens had been harassed or cyberbullied.

Online disinhibition is not the only influence on people’s behavior; personality and life experiences matter too. The video’s central takeaway is that understanding the effect can help people make more thoughtful choices and respond to others with empathy.

Ways to counter online disinhibition and cyberbullying

The closing section recommends the following actions. No single response fits every situation, so people should use their judgment.

• Tell a trusted adult if you witness cyberbullying or harassment involving someone you know or someone in your community. A targeted person may need help, and adults can help hold people accountable.
• Respond constructively to hurtful public comments. If someone posts negative comments about a public figure or celebrity, consider replying with something positive or calling out the negativity.
• Encourage people who share vulnerable information. A brief supportive comment can help someone who is looking for understanding or support.
• Talk with friends in real life about online disinhibition and how hurtful comments affect people.
• Raise awareness and educate peers. Recognizing how online communication affects behavior can help people manage their own conduct and respond more thoughtfully.
• Practice empathy and respect online. Awareness can support more positive interactions, fewer conflicts, and healthier digital habits.

Speakers and sources featured

• Miles Best: The video’s host, who discusses his own experience acting aggressively toward another person online.
• Julia: A guest from the YouTube personal-finance show Two Cents, who describes receiving comments about her changing body while making videos.
• Closing instructional voiceover: Provides tips for countering cyberbullying; no speaker is identified in the subtitles.
• John Suler: Psychologist whose 2004 paper on online disinhibition is discussed.
• Common Sense Education: Credited as a collaborator on the video.