Hostile Content: Social Media Hates On English Women's Soccer Team
An English Women’s Soccer team has recently received a ton of hate on social media. With a total of 3000 posts containing hostile and controversial content, an analyst has found threats of violence against this soccer team. Some sports fans take it too far by trying to turn an opinion on a team into a fact.
Moonshot, an analytics device based in the UK, reports back that 95 posts only targeted either a specific player or the head coach. Whether a website post or not, this offense is highly rude and brings down the morale of the team. These actions further push fans away from a team.
The posts are not only racist, but also include sexually offensive language against the players.
This isn’t saying that social media platforms are not using terms of service, but it is that users are becoming harsh and hurtful. While many users follow the rules of online safety and kindness, others do take it to the next level when it comes to their feelings. And sometimes, it becomes hurtful.
Although it may not be entirely the user‘s fault when it comes to hurtful language online. Some may not be able to control themselves or be motivated by peer pressure. Additionally, some may be led to believe in false stories, such as people making posts when they don’t understand the entire picture.
Others may twist the story to cause a controversy against a team they do not like. The enthusiasm in supporting your team is sometimes taken too far, and social media platforms should be programmed to recognize harsh or hurtful language.
In addition to false stories, others may be driven to make these posts because of gender equality. Male teams may be targeted because of the ongoing Women’s Rights Act since the mid 18 hundreds. Female teams may be targeted by men who are tired of women fighting for freedom.
Finally, some may just hold such a passion for a team that they either grew up with or just really love. For example, a lot of people keep items from their childhood. This kind of heartwarming feeling may grow along with age, to a point where you fight for your favorite team like your life. There is no telling why people prey on specific sports teams. Whatever the reason, online abuse is still not okay and should be discussed more.
Take this article as your motivation to be kind online and spread enthusiasm through happy feelings, and not bad. It’s okay to be angry and to express your feelings online. However, it is not okay to take part in online abuse. If you are being targeted in an online post, talk to your parents or a trusted adult, like a teacher or therapist.