The dark side of online influence isn’t always intentional. Sometimes it emerges from the natural dynamics of social media, where a single complaint can transform into an avalanche of harassment. Let’s examine how this happens and what we can do to avoid becoming part of the problem.
The Invisible Avalanche
When an influencer expresses frustration about someone or something, they might be totally unaware of what happens next. Their fans, feeling protective of someone they consider a friend, leap to their defense. Each fan might send just one message or leave just one comment. But multiply that individual action by thousands of followers, and suddenly the target is drowning in a flood of criticism.
The cruel irony is that no one except the target sees the full scope of this harassment. The influencer sees only a fraction of their fans’ responses. Each fan sees only their own message, and maybe a few other fans who all individually feel like they’re doing the right thing. But the target experiences every single message, comment, and mention as a relentless barrage.
The Friend You’ve Never Met
At the heart of this dynamic lies the parasocial relationship – the one-sided emotional bond between fans and influencers. We come to feel like we truly know these online personalities through their constant presence in our lives. We see their daily routines, hear their personal stories, and feel invested in their struggles.
But here’s the hard truth: no matter how authentic an influencer seems, you don’t actually know them. They’re not your friend. They’re not your family. When you rush to defend them, you’re acting on an emotional connection that exists only in one direction.
Your Responsibility as a Digital Citizen
Before joining in criticism of someone who’s upset your favorite online personality, pause and ask yourself:
- Am I seeing the whole picture, or just one side of a complex situation?
- Does this situation need my input?
- Is my reaction proportional to the actual grievance?
- Am I being manipulated into becoming part of someone else’s harassment campaign?
The internet runs on attention, and drama generates attention. Some influencers understand this all too well and deliberately weaponize their audience against critics or competitors. Don’t let yourself become an unwitting foot soldier in someone else’s war.
A Word to Influencers
If you have a significant online following, you wield real power – whether you want it or not. Your offhand complaints can unleash devastating consequences for their targets. This doesn’t mean you can never express frustration or criticism, but it does mean you need to choose your battles carefully.
Consider handling grievances privately first. If you must speak publicly, be specific about what resolution you’re seeking. And most importantly, pay attention to how your audience responds. If you notice them dogpiling someone, speak up and call for restraint. Your voice got them started; it can help stop them too.
Remember: The internet is not fiction. The harassment someone experiences because of your words causes real pain, real anxiety, and real trauma. Use your influence wisely.
THE INTERNET IS SCARY 