In the digital age in which we live, interpersonal relationships have evolved significantly with the incorporation of instant messaging platforms such as WhatsApp. While this tool facilitates communication and contact with others, it has also given rise to new forms of mistreatment and psychological abuse. In this article, we will explore the 8 types of abuse that can manifest through WhatsApp and the warning signs that we should take into account.
Types of Abuse Through WhatsApp
1. Ignoring or Giving Monosyllabic Responses
A common form of abuse through WhatsApp is a lack of attention or interest in the conversation. When a person constantly ignores the interlocutor's messages or responds with monosyllables such as "ok" or "yes", it can generate feelings of frustration, devaluation and anxiety in the other party. This type of behavior shows a lack of interest or respect towards the affected person.
2. Excessive Control
Excessive control through WhatsApp manifests itself in the need to constantly monitor the other person's activity in the application. This includes invasive questions about who you are talking to, reviewing your conversations, or demanding detailed explanations about your time online. This behavior denotes insecurity, possessiveness and lack of trust in the relationship.
3. Verbal Aggression
Aggressive messages, insults, threats or humiliation through WhatsApp constitute a form of psychological abuse. These words full of hostility and violence can negatively impact the self-esteem and emotional well-being of the affected person. It is important to identify these behaviors as warning signs of a toxic and harmful environment.
4. Emotional Manipulation
Emotional manipulation through WhatsApp is characterized by the use of manipulative tactics to influence the other person's feelings and decisions. This may include messages of blame, victimization, emotional blackmail or distortion of reality in order to control the situation and obtain what is desired. The manipulated person may experience confusion, anxiety, and decreased self-esteem.
5. Privacy Intrusion
Privacy intrusion through WhatsApp involves invading personal boundaries and accessing private information without consent. This can manifest itself in reading messages without authorization, monitoring online activities, or demanding to share intimate details. This lack of respect for privacy can generate feelings of invasion, anguish and discomfort in the affected person.
6. Punitive Silence
Punitive silence is a form of emotional punishment that manifests itself through the absence of a response on WhatsApp as a mode of control or manipulation. This strategy seeks to generate anxiety, uncertainty, and guilt in the other person by not providing them with the attention or validation they seek. Prolonged silence can deteriorate communication and trust in the relationship.
7. Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying through WhatsApp involves the use of the platform to harass, intimidate, threaten or defame the other person. This may include sending offensive messages, disclosing private information, or creating constant harassment situations. Cyberbullying has significant impacts on the emotional and psychological health of the victim.
8. Constant Comparisons
Making constant comparisons through WhatsApp, whether with ex-partners, friends or family, can generate insecurity, jealousy and discomfort in the relationship. These comparisons can trigger conflicts, increase anxiety and deteriorate the self-esteem of the affected person. It is important to identify and address these types of behaviors to maintain healthy and respectful communication.
Warning Signs
1. Changes in Behavior
One of the first indicators of abuse through WhatsApp are changes in the behavior of the affected person. These changes can manifest as anxiety, sadness, irritability, insomnia, lack of concentration, or loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy. It is essential to pay attention to these signs and provide support to the affected person.
2. Avoidance of Certain Conversations or Topics
If the person avoids talking about certain topics or conversations on WhatsApp, it could be a sign that they feel uncomfortable, pressured or intimidated in the relationship. Avoidance of discussing certain topics may indicate the presence of emotional abuse or manipulation in communication. It is important to respect the limits and comfort of the other person in digital interaction.
3. Insecurity and Low Self-Esteem
Abuse through WhatsApp can negatively impact the self-esteem and security of the affected person. Feelings of insecurity, guilt, insignificance, or worthlessness can be indicators that the person is experiencing psychological abuse in the relationship. It is essential to provide emotional support and promote the affected person's self-esteem.
4. Social Isolation
Abuse through WhatsApp can contribute to the social isolation of the affected person. If you notice that the person is distancing themselves from their friends, family, or social activities, it could be a sign that they are experiencing a toxic or abusive relationship through the app. It is important to offer support and encourage connection with other supportive environments.
5. Fear or Anxiety Upon Message Notification
If the person experiences fear, anxiety or discomfort when receiving message notifications on WhatsApp, it could be a sign that they associate digital communication with negative or stressful situations. These types of emotional reactions can indicate the presence of psychological abuse in the relationship and the need to address this situation proactively.
6. Feelings of Guilt or Shame
Abuse through WhatsApp can generate feelings of guilt, shame or self-blame in the affected person. These feelings can be fostered by manipulative, aggressive or humiliating messages that seek to devalue and control the other person. It is essential to provide emotional support and empower the person to recognize these dynamics of abuse.
7. Deterioration in Mental Health
Abuse through WhatsApp can have significant consequences on the mental health of the affected person. These consequences can manifest themselves in the form of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, eating disorders or suicidal thoughts. It is crucial to provide professional and psychological support in cases of online emotional abuse.
8. Emotional Dependency or Pathological Attachment
Abuse through WhatsApp can contribute to the development of emotional dependency or a pathological attachment to the other person. This dependency is characterized by the excessive need for attention, validation or approval from the aggressor, which can generate imbalances in the relationship and affect the emotional autonomy of the affected person. It is necessary to promote independence and self-care in these types of situations.
In conclusion, abuse through WhatsApp is a worrying manifestation of psychological abuse in interpersonal relationships. Identifying the different types of abuse and the warning signs is essential to prevent and address these situations effectively. It is important to promote respectful, empathetic and healthy communication in the digital environment, promoting emotional well-being and mutual respect in virtual interactions.