Enforced isolation in Kazakhstan fostered a surge in online harassment among its residents.
From Social Media Struggles to Silent Suffering: The Rise of Cyberbullying Among Kazakhstan's Youth
The digital era has brought forth a specter of bullying that transcends the physical realm. Known as cyberbullying, this insidious form of harassment has been on the rise in Kazakhstan, particularly amidst the ongoing pandemic and enhanced quarantine measures. According to a leading professional association in the country, over 34% of the complaints they receive pertain to cyberbullying. Every fifth teenager finds themselves ensnared in this online aggression, reports Almaty.tv.
Take Dina, a typical victim of this modern-day terror. About two months ago, Dina parted ways with her boyfriend. The tale, however, took a darker turn as the spurned suitor sought revenge for his unrequited affection. Dina's life was thrown into disarray, as she was subjected to harassment not only by her ex but also by her classmates and mutual friends.
"I ended things with my boyfriend, but he didn't want to, he was upset and now he's making my life a living hell online. I don't know what to do," Dina, a cyberbullying victim, shared.
Cyberbullying entails intimidation and harassment through digital technologies, and it can take shape on social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, and mobile phones. The objective is to instill fear, anger, or humiliation in the targeted individuals.
The flurry of digital connectivity means that cyberbullying has become an escalating concern for both parents and psychologists worldwide. Approximately 80% of children and teenagers globally are subjected to various forms of bullying each year, with internet-based bullying emerging as a pertinent issue. Officially recorded statistics on cyberbullying are scarce, but experts suggest that this issue is a pressing concern in Kazakhstan, as evidenced by the mounting number of distress calls to public organizations.
The Alarming Reality: 19,000 Parents Speak Out Against Cyberbullying
"Cyberbullying can potentially result in harassment and blackmail, if perpetrated by adults. The worst-case scenario is when they drive someone to suicide," said Shavkat Sabirov, President of the "Internet Association of Kazakhstan" NGO.
The website of the public fund "Internet Association" receives between 100 to 200 complaints each month, with nearly 40% of them pertaining to cyberbullying. The increasing frequency of such complaints underscores the urgency for action.
Psychologists stress the importance of vigilance, urging parents to closely monitor their children's digital interactions, particularly for younger users. A possible solution could involve the proliferation of clubs and sections dedicated to promoting digital wellbeing.
"Parental responsibility is pivotal, especially during the teenage years. Children, especially in challenging situations, should reach out to their parents," emphasized Vladimir Steblyanko, President of the Association of Psychologists of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In his Address to the People of Kazakhstan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the need for adopting a law to protect citizens and children from online bullying. The Head of State also underscored the necessity of legislative measures in this regard.
These legal measures aim to safeguard children from digital harm, reflecting the government's recognition of the cyber risks children face and its commitment to addressing this issue.
Science and health-and-wellness are crucial in addressing the rising issue of cyberbullying among Kazakhstan's youth. Mental health, specifically, becomes a significant concern as victims of cyberbullying can experience severe emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. The Association of Psychologists of the Republic of Kazakhstan, for instance, emphasizes the importance of parental vigilance and promoting digital wellbeing through clubs and sections dedicated to mental health and digital safety.
