Think About It

We have all seen those comments on social media; the passive-aggressive or even straight out nasty comment, the comment that takes a swipe at someone’s picture, usually about that person’s appearance or something they like.

Maybe it doesn’t affect the person posting the nasty comments but they forget someone is on the other end of their comment. Would they have said the same in a real life situation? Probably not but I know a lot have taken this approach to people into their own lives and seem to think it is ok to say whatever happens to pop into their head at the time. There doesn’t seem to be any thought or filter to some people’s mouths these days, especially online.

Celebrities and those with social media influence or blogs receive a lot of negative and some really horrible comments, even death threats! Before you say “Well, they put themselves out there to be criticised”. Does anyone really put themselves out there to be criticised, trolled or threatened, the answer would be a resounding NO. Sure, you can have your opinion on a topic but that doesn’t mean you can post something nasty or hurtful about the person.

Recently, there have been numerous celebrities calling out on this behaviour. Chrissy Teigan last week was ridiculed for her haircut and “looking fat/ pregnant (only four months after having her son, Miles), Rebecca Judd, Kate Middleton, Victoria Beckham, Angelina Jolie and others are constantly being criticised for being too thin, other celebrities like Kelly Clarkson get shamed for being “too fat”. Are we so insecure with our own looks that we have to shame celebrities?

I have never understood why people feel the need to voice their negative opinions on somebody’s looks, especially celebrities, because a) it’s rude b) would they like the same thing said about them? Would they like someone telling them they are too thin/ fat, their outfit is terrible etc? No. So why say it?

It’s not just about judging someone’s appearance either, I have seen snarky comments about something someone likes, their decor and their pets. Just because something isn’t your cup of tea, doesn’t mean you should say it.

I love this infographic and I think it should be promoted on all social media:

Maybe it is learned from social media, maybe it is from people being more liberal with expressing themselves, maybe it is from poor parenting and parents allowing their kids to say whatever they like and not being taught respect and compassion for others….. who knows but I do know that it needs to stop.

What do you think? Is it acceptable to comment negatively on social media?