Quote Originally Posted by Leicesterbaggie View Post
I feel that many of today’s mental issues are the result of problems caused by social media, especially regarding the younger generation. If someone is upset by what is said to or about them then do not participate. I realise that I am of the generation who have not been brought up with social media outlets but it does seem a simple answer to me. If someone wants to disrespect me they have to do it to my face, now that is a different ball game. Those people who do it via a keyboard are cowards and will not do it face to face. Therefore, if you are not on these outlets you will not receive the insults and abuse. A simple remedy to my mind.

I participate regularly on this forum but if I was on the receiving end of continual abuse then I would cease to post on here. Differing opinions are fine, as long as they are aired in a respectful manner.
Your second paragraph, spot on Leics. Your first one is a huge topic on it own!

There is no doubting the benefits that the internet has brought, particularly in regard to increasing access to and sharing information. But it also has its down sides where it can be used too easily for dangerous and unsavoury acts whether that be to spread propaganda, "fake news", hatred and conspiracy theories or aid criminal activities. Same old debate around policing v freedom of speech but Social Media is a major route into all the above and the consequences of this can be quite alarming.

I don't use Facebook, ti k tok, Twitter (as was) etc, not just because of the above but also because I cannot abide the tide of inane posts or proliferation of self-gratifying "selfies". I'm sure, that in moderation, they can be a useful means of communication but one issue is the addictive nature of them and the other is the ease in which people can slip into being keyboard warriors who can bully or be deliberately offensive.

Reliance on such remote technology where texting replaces physically speaking to some-one either face to face or over a phone or video link is definitely leading to an erosion in communication skills, especially within the younger generations who use such technology far more than previous ones. They find it harder to deal with confrontation for example or read body language and their inter-personal skills can be poor. A generalization certainly as not all younger people can be criticised for this, but enough to make the point valid.