There has been an increase in online social interactions through various platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit. These platforms provide users with opportunities to express themselves freely and share their thoughts and opinions.
This freedom comes with some consequences that have not been fully explored.
Some studies show that exposure to online conflict and outrage can negatively affect how individuals regulate their emotions and develop empathy towards others. This article will explore the impact of online conflict and outrage on emotional regulation and empathy development, providing practical tips on how to mitigate these effects.
The effect of online conflict and outrage on emotional regulation refers to how individuals respond to negative feelings such as anger, frustration, and sadness when they encounter them online. According to research, prolonged exposure to online conflict and outrage can lead to desensitization, whereby individuals become less sensitive to negative stimuli, making it difficult for them to experience positive emotions. Desensitization leads to a reduced ability to regulate emotions, leading to mood swings and other psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. Researchers attribute desensitization to the fact that online platforms provide a safe space for people to express extreme views without any accountability or consequence, which can normalize extreme behavior and reduce emotion regulation skills.
Online conflict and outrage also negatively impact empathy development. Empathy is the capacity to understand and share the feelings of others. When exposed to online conflict and outrage, individuals may develop a callous attitude towards others, especially those who hold opposing views. This lack of empathy makes it challenging to connect with others, thereby reducing social support networks, which is essential for mental health. Online conflict and outrage also promote the "us vs. them" mentality, whereby individuals view themselves as superior to others based on their opinions, which is detrimental to developing empathy.
To mitigate the negative effects of online conflict and outrage on emotional regulation and empathy development, several strategies exist. Firstly, individuals should limit their time spent on these platforms to avoid overexposure to negative content. Secondly, they should engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as yoga, meditation, or exercise, to improve emotional regulation.
Individuals should practice mindfulness, whereby they focus on the present moment and pay attention to their thoughts and feelings, promoting self-awareness.
Individuals should seek professional help if they experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other psychological problems related to online conflict and outrage.
Exposure to online conflict and outrage can negatively affect emotional regulation and empathy development. Individuals need to be aware of this effect and take proactive steps to manage their emotions and develop empathy. By doing so, they can maintain good mental health and foster positive relationships both offline and online.
How does exposure to online conflict and outrage shape emotional regulation and empathy development?
People who are exposed to online conflict and outrage may experience a range of negative emotions, including frustration, anger, fear, sadness, and anxiety. These emotions can lead to difficulties with emotional regulation, as people may struggle to manage their responses and remain calm in the face of confrontation.