Should Parents Be Allowed to Monitor Their Children’s Activity on Social Media?
Social media plays a significant role in the lives of young people, offering both opportunities and risks. The question of whether parents should be allowed to monitor their children’s social media activity is complex, involving issues of privacy, safety, and trust.
5 Days Left to Support #JoolsLaw: Balancing Children’s Privacy and Safety
The tragic story of Jools Sweeney, who was found dead in April 2022, continues to resonate deeply. With just five days remaining to sign a crucial petition, his mother, Ellen Roome, urges the public to support #JoolsLaw. This proposed legislation aims to compel social media companies to grant parents access to their deceased children’s accounts, particularly when cyberbullying or other harmful online activities are suspected. As the deadline of May 30, 2024, rapidly approaches, Ellen’s campaign raises a fundamental question for parents everywhere: should a child’s right to privacy be overridden in the interest of their safety?
Ellen Roome’s Campaign for Change
Ellen Roome, Jools’ mother, has channeled her grief into advocacy. She firmly believes that access to Jools’ social media accounts could provide crucial insights into his mental state and the circumstances surrounding his death. Ellen’s campaign aims to gather 10,000 signatures by May 30, 2024, to support a petition that calls for legislation requiring social media companies to release the accounts of deceased minors to their parents or legal guardians.
The Petition and Its Significance
Ellen’s petition underscores a broader issue that many bereaved parents face: the inability to access their children’s digital lives posthumously. Social media platforms, citing privacy policies and terms of service, often deny access to these accounts, leaving families in the dark. Ellen argues that in cases where children have passed away, especially under suspicious or unclear circumstances, parents should have the right to access their social media accounts. This access could reveal bullying, harassment, or other factors that might have contributed to their child’s death.
Arguments for Social Media Access
Closure and Understanding: Access to social media accounts can help parents understand what their children were going through, potentially providing much-needed closure.
Evidence Gathering: Social media interactions could hold vital clues about the factors leading to a child’s death, including cyberbullying or other harmful behaviors.
Preventive Measures: Understanding the nature of online interactions can help parents and authorities take preventive measures to protect other children from similar fates.
Challenges and Counterarguments
Privacy Concerns: Social media accounts often contain communications with third parties who have an expectation of privacy. Granting access to these accounts could infringe upon the privacy rights of others.
Policy and Legal Hurdles: Social media companies have stringent policies and legal frameworks that protect user data, even posthumously. Changing these policies would require significant legal and regulatory changes.
Emotional Impact: The content found within these accounts could be distressing for grieving parents, potentially exacerbating their trauma.
Moving Forward
Ellen Roome’s petition is not just a personal quest for answers; it represents a call for a broader societal change. As digital interactions become an integral part of our lives, the policies surrounding digital legacies need to evolve. Ellen’s campaign highlights the need for a balanced approach that respects privacy while providing bereaved families the information they need to find peace.
The Case for Parental Monitoring
Safety and Protection: One of the primary reasons parents monitor their children’s social media is to ensure their safety. The online world can be fraught with dangers such as cyberbullying, predators, and exposure to inappropriate content. By keeping an eye on their children’s online activities, parents can intervene when they see signs of trouble, potentially preventing harmful situations before they escalate.
Guidance and Education: Social media is a relatively new phenomenon, and children often lack the experience and judgment needed to navigate it safely. Parental monitoring can be a way to guide children in making smart and safe online choices. By discussing online behavior and its consequences, parents can educate their children about digital etiquette, privacy settings, and the importance of thinking before they post.
Emotional and Mental Health: The impact of social media on mental health is well-documented, with studies showing links to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among young users. Parents who monitor social media can detect early signs of distress or unhealthy behavior patterns, enabling them to provide the necessary support or seek professional help.
Concerns About Parental Monitoring
Privacy and Trust: Adolescents value their privacy and autonomy. Parental monitoring can be perceived as an invasion of privacy, potentially leading to feelings of mistrust and resentment. This can strain the parent-child relationship, making open communication more difficult.
Encouraging Deception: If children know they are being monitored, they might create secret accounts or find other ways to hide their online activities. This can lead to a false sense of security for parents and drive children towards more risky online behaviors.
Development of Independence: Part of growing up is learning to make decisions independently. Over-monitoring can hinder this process, preventing children from learning how to handle online interactions and conflicts on their own.
Access to Deceased Children’s Social Media Accounts: Freedom of Information Act
In cases where children have passed away, especially due to suspected cyberbullying, parents often seek access to their social media accounts to understand what happened. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a law that allows for the disclosure of previously unreleased information and documents. However, it does not typically apply to private entities like social media companies. Therefore, parents often face significant challenges in accessing their deceased children’s accounts.
Arguments for Granting Access
Understanding Circumstances: For parents who have lost a child to suspected cyberbullying, accessing social media accounts can provide critical insights into the circumstances leading up to the tragedy. This information can be vital for achieving closure and understanding their child’s final days.
Evidence Gathering: In cases of cyberbullying, the content of a child’s social media account can serve as evidence in investigations. It can help identify perpetrators and hold them accountable, potentially preventing further instances of bullying.
Preventive Measures: By understanding the nature and extent of cyberbullying their child faced, parents can contribute to broader efforts aimed at combating online harassment and creating safer digital environments for other children.
Challenges and Concerns
Privacy of Third Parties: Social media accounts often contain private communications with third parties who have an expectation of privacy. Granting access to these accounts can infringe on the privacy rights of these individuals.
Company Policies and Legal Hurdles: Social media companies have their own policies regarding account access and privacy. Navigating these policies can be legally complex and time-consuming, often requiring court orders or other legal interventions.
Emotional Impact: Accessing a deceased child’s social media can be emotionally overwhelming for parents. They might encounter distressing content that can exacerbate their grief.
Conclusion
The tragic case of Jools Sweeney is a stark reminder of the complex interplay between digital life and real-life consequences. Ellen Roome’s advocacy for access to her son’s social media accounts is a poignant example of the lengths to which parents will go to understand and protect their children. As the petition deadline approaches, it serves as a critical moment for society to reconsider how we handle digital legacies and support grieving families in their search for answers. The outcome of this campaign could set a precedent for future policies, ensuring that in the face of tragedy, parents are not left without the means to seek understanding and justice.
Ultimately, fostering open communication and educating children about the responsible use of social media may be the most effective approach to ensuring their safety and well-being in the digital world.
In the age of social media dominance, questions about its impact on mental health have become increasingly prevalent. From concerns about addiction to anxiety and depression, the relationship between social media use and mental well-being is a complex and multifaceted issue. While it’s tempting to lay blame solely on mental health conditions for excessive social media consumption, the reality is far more nuanced.
Understanding the Connection
Social media platforms offer an unprecedented level of connectivity, allowing users to interact with others, share experiences, and consume vast amounts of information. However, this constant stream of content can also have detrimental effects on mental health.
Comparison and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): One of the most significant contributors to negative mental health outcomes associated with social media is the pervasive culture of comparison. Users often showcase curated versions of their lives, leading others to compare themselves unfavorably and experience feelings of inadequacy. This phenomenon can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions such as depression and low self-esteem.
Validation and Self-Worth: Many individuals seek validation and affirmation through social media likes, comments, and shares. The pursuit of external validation can lead to a cycle of dependency, where self-worth becomes contingent on social media metrics. For those already grappling with self-esteem issues, this can deepen feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy.
Isolation and Loneliness: Paradoxically, excessive social media use can also contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness. While platforms offer the illusion of connectivity, studies have shown that heavy social media users often feel more isolated than their peers. This sense of loneliness can be particularly detrimental to individuals already struggling with mental health challenges.
The Role of Mental Health
While social media can undoubtedly exacerbate existing mental health issues, it’s essential to recognize that mental health conditions alone cannot be blamed for excessive social media use. Instead, these platforms often serve as coping mechanisms for individuals grappling with various psychological challenges.
Escapism: For those dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, social media can provide a temporary escape from reality. Engaging with online communities, consuming entertaining content, or even mindlessly scrolling through feeds can offer moments of respite from underlying emotional distress.
Social Support: In some cases, social media serves as a vital source of support for individuals facing mental health struggles. Online communities and forums provide spaces for individuals to share experiences, seek advice, and find solace in knowing that they’re not alone in their struggles.
Accessibility to Resources: Social media platforms have also facilitated greater access to mental health resources and support networks. From online therapy services to mental health advocacy groups, individuals can leverage social media to connect with resources that may otherwise be inaccessible.
Finding Balance and Responsibility
Rather than placing blame solely on mental health conditions or social media platforms, it’s crucial to adopt a more nuanced understanding of their interaction. Recognizing the complex interplay between social media use and mental health allows for more targeted interventions and support mechanisms.
Digital Literacy and Awareness: Educating individuals, especially young users, about healthy social media habits and the potential impact on mental health is paramount. Promoting digital literacy and mindfulness can empower users to navigate social media more responsibly and mitigate negative consequences.
Self-Reflection and Boundaries: Encouraging individuals to reflect on their social media habits and establish boundaries is essential for promoting balance. Setting limits on screen time, curating online environments, and prioritizing real-world connections can help mitigate the adverse effects of excessive social media use.
Community and Support Systems: Fostering supportive communities both online and offline can provide individuals with the resources they need to cope with mental health challenges constructively. From peer support groups to professional counseling services, establishing robust support systems is critical for promoting mental well-being.
The Psychological Toll: Types of Mental Health Issues Linked to Social Media Use
Social media has revolutionized the way we connect, communicate, and consume information. However, its pervasive influence isn’t without consequences, particularly concerning mental health. Here are some types of mental health issues that can arise from excessive or problematic social media use:
Anxiety Disorders: The constant exposure to curated images of perfection and the pressure to maintain an ideal online image can fuel anxiety disorders. Fear of missing out (FOMO), social comparison, and performance anxiety induced by social media can exacerbate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.
Depression: Social media can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and isolation, which are significant precursors to depression. Excessive time spent on platforms, cyberbullying, and negative self-comparison can all contribute to the development or worsening of depressive symptoms.
Body Image Issues and Eating Disorders: The prevalence of idealized body images and the promotion of unrealistic beauty standards on social media can trigger body dissatisfaction and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Constant exposure to edited and filtered images can distort perceptions of one’s body and lead to unhealthy behaviors related to food and weight.
Low Self-Esteem: Seeking validation and approval through likes, comments, and followers on social media can erode self-esteem. Comparing oneself to others and feeling inadequate based on perceived social media success can diminish self-worth and confidence.
Addiction: Excessive use of social media can lead to addictive behaviors, with individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms when unable to access their favorite platforms. The dopamine-driven reward system of likes, comments, and notifications can reinforce compulsive checking and scrolling behaviors, akin to substance addiction.
Sleep Disturbances: The blue light emitted by screens, coupled with the constant stimulation of social media, can disrupt sleep patterns. Excessive screen time before bed can interfere with the body’s natural circadian rhythm, leading to insomnia and sleep disturbances, which, in turn, can negatively impact mental health.
Cyberbullying and Trauma: Social media platforms provide avenues for cyberbullying, harassment, and online abuse, leading to significant psychological trauma. Victims of cyberbullying may experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including flashbacks, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors.
Attention Deficit and Impulsivity: The rapid-fire nature of social media feeds, coupled with the constant influx of notifications, can contribute to attention deficits and impulsivity. Individuals may struggle to maintain focus, experience difficulty completing tasks, and exhibit impulsive behaviors both online and offline.
Unraveling the Connection: OCD and its Association with Social Media Use
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing distress or preventing perceived harm. While OCD has traditionally been understood in the context of offline behaviors, there is growing evidence to suggest a significant association between OCD symptoms and social media use. Here’s how OCD can manifest in the realm of social media:
Checking and Rechecking: Individuals with OCD often engage in compulsive checking behaviors, such as ensuring doors are locked or appliances are turned off. In the digital realm, this can translate into incessant checking of social media notifications, messages, or updates. The fear of missing out (FOMO) or the need for reassurance may drive individuals to repeatedly refresh their social media feeds, leading to a cycle of compulsive behavior.
Excessive Posting or Editing: Perfectionism is a common trait among individuals with OCD, and this can manifest in meticulous attention to detail when curating social media content. Whether it’s endlessly editing photos to achieve an unattainable standard of perfection or compulsively crafting the ‘perfect’ caption, individuals with OCD may struggle with the relentless pursuit of flawlessness in their online presence.
Counting and Ordering: Some individuals with OCD experience compulsions related to counting or arranging objects in a particular order. In the context of social media, this may involve obsessively organizing followers, likes, or comments in a specific sequence. Additionally, individuals may feel compelled to engage in numerical rituals, such as maintaining a certain number of posts or followers, to alleviate anxiety or discomfort.
Intrusive Thoughts and Rumination: OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts that provoke distress and lead to compulsive behaviors. Social media can serve as a catalyst for these intrusive thoughts, with individuals fixating on perceived mistakes in their online interactions or dwelling on negative feedback or criticism. This rumination can exacerbate anxiety and perpetuate the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged and scrolling, fostering a constant sense of connectivity and information overload. For individuals with OCD, the fear of missing out on important updates or opportunities can be overwhelming, leading to compulsive checking and monitoring of social media feeds to alleviate anxiety.
Social Comparison and Perfectionism: Social media often presents an idealized version of reality, where individuals showcase their best moments and achievements. This can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and fuel perfectionistic tendencies among individuals with OCD. Constant comparison to others’ seemingly flawless lives can amplify feelings of self-doubt and trigger compulsive behaviors aimed at achieving unrealistic standards.
Understanding the intersection between OCD and social media use is crucial for recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals grappling with both. By raising awareness, promoting digital mindfulness, and providing access to appropriate mental health resources and support, we can help individuals navigate the complexities of OCD in the digital age and foster healthier relationships with social media.
Conclusion
Recognizing the potential mental health implications of social media use is essential for promoting digital well-being. By fostering awareness, cultivating healthy digital habits, and seeking support when needed, individuals can mitigate the adverse effects and harness the positive potential of social media for their mental health and overall well-being.
While mental health conditions undoubtedly play a role in shaping social media behaviors, they cannot be solely blamed for its negative impact. By acknowledging the complex interplay between social media use and mental health and promoting responsible digital habits, we can strive to create healthier online environments conducive to positive mental well-being.
The Ripple Effect of Public Humiliation: Consequences That Extend Beyond the Moment
Public humiliation is a potent force that can leave lasting scars, not just on the individual directly affected but also on the fabric of social dynamics. Where we are becoming increasingly interconnected through social media, the consequences of humiliating someone in public can extend far beyond the immediate moment, affecting mental health, relationships, and even societal well-being.
Impact on Mental Health: Humiliating someone in public can have severe repercussions on their mental health. The shame and embarrassment experienced in such situations can lead to anxiety, depression, and a loss of self-esteem. The long-term effects may manifest in a heightened sense of vulnerability and reluctance to engage in social interactions, perpetuating a cycle of isolation and loneliness.
Strained Relationships: Public humiliation often fractures relationships, both personal and professional. The bonds of trust can be irreparably damaged, leading to a breakdown in communication and understanding. Friends may distance themselves, colleagues may lose respect, and family dynamics may be forever altered. Rebuilding these relationships can be a challenging and lengthy process if it is even possible.
Social Stigma: In the age of social media, public humiliation can become viral within seconds, amplifying its impact. The person subjected to humiliation may face a social stigma that follows them for a long time. This can affect various aspects of their life, including job opportunities, friendships, and romantic relationships. The permanence of online content can make it challenging to escape the shadow of public humiliation.
Impact on bystanders: Witnessing public humiliation can create a culture of fear and silence. Bystanders may become reluctant to express themselves freely or challenge authority, fearing that they too could be the next target. This stifling of expression can have broader implications for societal progress, as diverse perspectives and constructive criticism are essential for growth and development.
Legal Consequences: In extreme cases, public humiliation can lead to legal repercussions. Depending on the nature of the humiliation, it may be considered defamation, harassment, or even assault. Legal action can result in financial consequences and further damage to the reputations of both the perpetrator and the victim.
What should you do if you have been publicly humiliated by someone of authority?
Experiencing public humiliation, especially from someone in authority, can be incredibly distressing.
Here are some steps you can consider taking to navigate through such a challenging situation:
Stay Calm: It’s natural to feel a surge of emotions when humiliated, but try to remain calm. Take deep breaths and give yourself a moment to process what happened.
Find Support: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for emotional support. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust can provide comfort and perspective.
Document the Incident: If applicable, document the incident. Write down what happened, including the date, time, location, and any witnesses. This documentation may be useful if you decide to take further action.
Reflect on the Situation: Reflect on the incident to understand the context and any possible contributing factors. This self-reflection can help you decide on the best course of action and how to address the issue constructively.
Address the Issue Directly: If you feel comfortable, consider addressing the person in authority privately. Choose a calm and non-confrontational approach, expressing how their actions affected you and seeking clarification or resolution.
Seek Guidance from HR or a Supervisor: If the humiliation occurred in a professional setting, consult with human resources or a higher-ranking supervisor. Share your concerns and provide any documentation you may have. They may be able to mediate or address the issue appropriately.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights, especially in a workplace setting. If the humiliation involves discrimination, harassment, or any form of misconduct, it’s essential to know what protections you have under the law.
Consider Counseling or Therapy: Seeking the help of a professional counselor or therapist can provide additional support in coping with the emotional aftermath of public humiliation. They can offer guidance on processing emotions and developing coping strategies.
Evaluate Your Options: Assess whether the incident warrants further action, such as filing a formal complaint or pursuing legal avenues. Consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and the potential courses of action available to you.
Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize self-care during this challenging time. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation, and surround yourself with positive influences.
Remember, you are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Every situation is unique, so trust your instincts and take steps that align with your well-being and personal values.
Human Rights Law and the Protection Against Humiliation
Human rights law is a crucial framework established to safeguard the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. Among the myriad rights enshrined in international treaties and conventions, protection against humiliation holds a prominent place. Humiliation, whether inflicted by state actors, individuals, or societal norms, undermines the principles of equality, dignity, and respect that are the cornerstone of human rights.
Understanding Humiliation in the Context of Human Rights
Humiliation can manifest in various forms, including verbal abuse, discriminatory practices, degradation, and torture. In the context of human rights law, the prohibition against humiliation is closely tied to broader principles such as the right to life, liberty, and security of person, freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, and the right to be free from discrimination.
International Instruments Safeguarding Against Humiliation
Several international instruments explicitly address the issue of humiliation and aim to protect individuals from its detrimental effects. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, declares in Article 1 that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” This foundational principle establishes the basis for protecting individuals from humiliation.
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) further elaborates on the right to be free from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment in Article 7. Similarly, the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) specifically addresses actions that lead to humiliation, emphasizing the absolute prohibition of torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
Regional human rights instruments, such as the European Convention on Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, also contain provisions aimed at preventing and remedying humiliation.
State Responsibilities and Accountability
States bear the primary responsibility for ensuring the protection of human rights, including safeguarding individuals from humiliation. This involves not only refraining from directly engaging in such practices but also implementing measures to prevent and address humiliation perpetrated by non-state actors.
National legal systems play a crucial role in holding perpetrators accountable for acts of humiliation. Courts and legal institutions, both at the domestic and international levels, can adjudicate cases related to human rights violations and provide redress to victims.
Challenges in Addressing Humiliation
Despite the clear legal frameworks in place, challenges persist in effectively addressing humiliation. In some instances, cultural norms, societal attitudes, and historical legacies may perpetuate practices that humiliate certain groups of people. Addressing these deeply ingrained issues requires a comprehensive and sustained effort, combining legal measures with education and awareness-raising initiatives.
The protection against humiliation is an integral aspect of human rights law, emphasizing the fundamental dignity and equality of all individuals. International treaties and conventions provide a robust framework for addressing and preventing acts of humiliation, placing the onus on states to uphold these principles. While challenges persist, the ongoing commitment to human rights and the collective effort to raise awareness can contribute to a world where every person is treated with the respect and dignity they inherently deserve.
The repercussions on mental health
The repercussions of humiliation on mental health are profound and multifaceted. Human rights violations that involve humiliation can leave lasting psychological scars, affecting the well-being and mental health of individuals. Understanding the impact on mental health is crucial for addressing the broader consequences of such violations and providing effective support for victims.
Psychological Trauma: Humiliation often leads to psychological trauma, causing individuals to experience intense emotional distress and a sense of powerlessness. The trauma resulting from humiliation can manifest as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health disorders.
Deterioration of Self-Esteem: Humiliation erodes a person’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem. Continuous exposure to humiliating experiences can contribute to feelings of shame, inadequacy, and a negative self-image. Individuals may internalize the degrading messages, leading to a diminished sense of their own value.
Social Isolation: Victims of humiliation may withdraw from social interactions out of fear of further mistreatment or due to feelings of shame and embarrassment. Social isolation can exacerbate mental health issues, as the support networks that are crucial for resilience and recovery may be weakened or severed.
Impact on Relationships: Humiliation can strain interpersonal relationships, including family, friends, and romantic partnerships. The emotional toll of humiliation can make it challenging for individuals to trust others, express vulnerability, or form meaningful connections, contributing to a sense of loneliness and isolation.
Development of Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms: In response to the emotional pain caused by humiliation, individuals may develop maladaptive coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, self-harm, or other destructive behaviors. These coping strategies may provide temporary relief but can exacerbate mental health challenges over time.
Long-Term Effects on Identity: Humiliation can have a lasting impact on an individual’s sense of identity. It may shape how victims perceive themselves and how they believe others see them. Rebuilding a positive self-image and identity can be a complex and lengthy process that often requires therapeutic intervention and support.
Barriers to Seeking Help: Stigma and fear of judgment can act as barriers to seeking mental health support for those who have experienced humiliation. Overcoming these barriers is essential to ensure that individuals receive the assistance they need to cope with the psychological consequences of human rights violations.
Interconnected Societal Impact: The mental health repercussions of humiliation extend beyond the individual level, affecting communities and societies as a whole. Persistent patterns of humiliation can contribute to a culture of fear, mistrust, and division, hindering social cohesion and collective well-being.
Addressing the mental health repercussions of humiliation requires a comprehensive approach, combining legal, psychological, and social interventions. Efforts should focus on preventing further human rights violations, providing mental health support for victims, and promoting societal awareness and education to foster empathy and understanding. By acknowledging the mental health impact of humiliation, societies can work towards creating environments that uphold human dignity and promote the well-being of all individuals.
The consequences of a person of authority not apologizing if the person they publicly humiliate, and the consequences of an investigation
When a person of authority publicly humiliates someone and fails to apologize, the consequences can be far-reaching and detrimental. This not only affects the individuals directly involved but can also have broader implications for trust in institutions, organizational culture, and the overall well-being of those affected. If the incident prompts an investigation, the consequences may become even more significant. Here are several potential repercussions:
Erosion of Trust: Failure to apologize can lead to a severe erosion of trust between the person of authority and those they lead or represent. Trust is a foundational element in any relationship, especially in professional or institutional settings. Without a sincere apology, trust may be difficult to rebuild, damaging the overall effectiveness of leadership.
Negative Organizational Culture: The behavior of a person in authority sets the tone for the organizational culture. If a leader engages in public humiliation without acknowledging the wrongdoing, it can foster a toxic work environment. This negativity may permeate the organization, affecting morale, productivity, and the overall well-being of employees.
Employee Disengagement: Public humiliation and the absence of a genuine apology can lead to employee disengagement. When employees feel unsupported or disrespected, their motivation and commitment to their work may decline, negatively impacting productivity and organizational success.
Legal Consequences: If the incident of public humiliation involves violations of laws or workplace regulations, an investigation may uncover legal liabilities. Failure to apologize may exacerbate the legal consequences, potentially leading to lawsuits, fines, or other legal actions against the person of authority or the organization.
Reputational Damage: Public humiliation can result in significant reputational damage for both the individual in authority and the organization. This damage can affect relationships with stakeholders, clients, and the broader community. A lack of apology may further intensify negative perceptions and hinder efforts at reputation repair.
Impact on Mental Health: The person who was publicly humiliated may experience severe emotional distress and mental health consequences. Without a sincere apology, the healing process may be impeded, potentially leading to prolonged emotional suffering, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
Employee Retention Issues: A hostile work environment created by public humiliation and the absence of an apology can contribute to employee turnover. Skilled and talented individuals may choose to leave the organization in search of a more supportive and respectful workplace, leading to a loss of valuable human capital.
Heightened Scrutiny and Investigations: The lack of an apology may trigger increased scrutiny from internal or external bodies, such as human resources departments, ethics committees, or regulatory agencies. Investigations may be initiated to assess the extent of the wrongdoing and determine whether organizational policies or laws were violated.
Leadership Credibility Damage: Failure to apologize can seriously damage the credibility of the person in authority. Leadership effectiveness is closely tied to credibility, and a leader who is unwilling to take responsibility for their actions may struggle to maintain the respect and support of their followers.
Organizational Change Requirements: Investigations may reveal systemic issues within the organization that contributed to the incident. This could necessitate broader organizational changes, such as revised policies, enhanced training programs, or a reassessment of leadership structures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The consequences of a person of authority not apologizing after publicly humiliating someone can have wide-ranging effects, impacting trust, organizational culture, legal standing, and the well-being of individuals involved. Investigations become crucial in uncovering the truth, determining accountability, and guiding necessary changes to prevent recurrence.
The consequences of humiliating someone in public are multifaceted and can have far-reaching implications. In a world that values empathy and understanding, it is crucial to recognize the potential harm caused by public humiliation and actively work toward creating a more compassionate and supportive society. Whether online or offline, fostering an environment where individuals feel safe and respected is not just a personal responsibility but a collective one that contributes to the well-being of society as a whole.
When you want to complain but fear repercussions, consider whistle-blowing or get someone to complain for you anonymously.
There should be no excuse to humiliate someone publically or privately. Humiliating some reflects at the end of the day on who you are. If you have been bullied or humiliated do not take it out on another person.
I have recently received a letter from British Gas about the new prices on the 1st of October 2022 with their incorrect estimated usage of £2015.92 Again they are basing their calculations on past usage. My past usage is going to be nothing like my present or future. Whereby I had the central heating on full blast last year I would rather freeze than put the central heating on this time round.
I have today submitted a meter reading and it showed I had used £37 pounds worth since my last reading. More is a pity I did not screenshot the price even though I have proof I submitted a reading online (screenshot below) which should reflect the current prices and anyone reading this would be able to agree on the current price of Gas as of the 29th of September 2022. Under the current energy price cap of £1,971, a typical UK household pays 7p per kilowatt hour for gas and 28p per kWh for electricity.
So if they try to scam me as they have done before, (Yes I have documented evidence of that) I will report them once again to the ombudsman where my case is still ongoing. I do not trust British Gas as far as I can through them and will NEVER RECOMMEND them to anyone.
Here is their estimated usage forecast which equates to a 45% increase:
Now let’s do the maths if my current usage as of 29/09/22 is about £40 per month x 12 months = £480 x 45% increase (£216) = £696 per annum, not £2015.92
I will be damned if they try to bully me into increasing my monthly payment plan and as I spoke to someone today advised me to contact my local MP Jo. Stevens.
Accenture Billing System
There is obviously a fault with the billing system: “Accenture systemcould have performed at101 percent efficiency. “British Gas uses bullying and is a threatening company whose call center staff is among the most unpleasant and downright offensive, not to mention seemingly willfully ignorant and obtuse, in the market, and who wouldn’t know the meaning of customer management if you were to spell it out on their reply prompt screens“. Citation –https://www.mycustomer.com/marketing/technology/british-gas-what-difference-would-a-working-billing-system-have-made
I feel for the people on direct debit who will be paying for over-estimated prices. Imagine how much interest the British Gas bank account will accumulate from their inaccurate estimations. It will be interesting how quickly they will refund you the money when they realize their error. Will they refund the interest they have earned and you have lost where the money could have been in your bank account, rather than in theirs? You will not see a penny extra mark my words.
There is another post coming shortly regarding the ombudsman which I have appealed their decision. How they responded will shock you and I plan to share my proof and findings with mind.org.uk
I will interlink once the article has been published here.
Final Notes From the Editor.
The billing system should not be based on the previous usage, the world is changing and so is our energy usage, with most of us using as little energy as we can. Companies should be fined for being heavy-handed with customers.
So to recap on the 27th of July 2022 I was put on a payment plan.
You have to bear in mind when the price rose earlier this year I tried to move my payment date and that is when the problems started in February although I did have a payment plan in place at the time but was told the only way I could move the date was if I set up a Direct Debit with the increased tariff. I wanted to move the date inline when my inbound payments were coming in. (The original payment plan which was at the time £65 and then rose to £90). Soon after I canceled the direct debit because I was not comfortable giving British Gas access to my bank account, this is when they refused to put me on a payment plan where I manually could pay by bank transfer, standing order, or directly on their website.
This has been going on for the best part of six months (Feb -August 2022).
I eventually was put on a payment plan after several phone calls and meter readings proving I was not using much Gas, somewhat five months later.
On the 4th of August 2022, some bright spark (woman) stopped my payment plan because she said I would not be able to pay online if I had a magnetic card, I told her I would pay by bank transfer and she said it was not possible even though I have the bank details to do that or simply pay on their website. There have been many agents that have said this causing contradictions to what other agents say, that I am able to pay online.
I phoned back on the 5th of August and was put back on the payment plan yet AGAIN.
I then got a letter yesterday dated 6th August that British Gas has not heard from me even though I am phoning practically every day.
In the letter, British Gas states my account has been passed to the debt collection team, threatening me with a smart meter which I refuse to have installed. Smart Meters | DISABLED ENTREPRENEUR – DISABILITY UK
I proceeded yesterday to go on their chat and set the transcript to email me at the end of the chat. You can guess I never received an email.
So today I phone up and I was met with a hostile agent who spoke to me in a very controlling manner. I told her about the letter and I said that I did not cancel the payment plan on the 4th, no sooner I had said this she put the phone down on me.
I then decided to have another go with the chat and not trusting British Gas as far as I can throw them, Istarted the chatagain but remembered what my daughter said and that was to screenshot the chat just in case I did not get a copy of the transcript. The agent assured me I would get an email (as per the screenshot)…wrong I had no such email but I did do the screenshots that confirmed I am on a payment plan and that my account has not been passed to debt collections.
When the agent asked me if I have happy with British Gas I was not going to go into an in-depth conversation about why I was not happy with British Gas, so I simply said yes to end the chat.
Technically speaking I should be working but this company has made me so unwell I barely respond to emails and do the occasional update. The amount of time I have wasted with this company is beyond unbelievable.
Moving Forward and My Usage.
I eat sandwiches and salads maybe use the cooker 10 times a month. Come winter I am going to buy oil-filled radiators.
I would rather pay a little bit extra to the electricity supplier EON Next than give a penny more to British Gas.
“British Gas needs to have empathetic agents, not people that think they are so high and mighty and above you. They should be held accountable for their actions”.
This has been going on for six months and the number of calls I have had to make, emails I have sent, and chats are enough to test anyone’s mental health strengthand state of mind.
I have reported this to the ombudsman and will be sending them another update today.
In my opinion it absolutely disgusting how they treat people.
British Gas Intimidation and Disregard For Mental Health & Vulnerabilities.
Intimidation is intentional behavior that causes the victim emotional distress, panic, fear, anxiety, and depression. The instigator of intimidation tries to intimidate the victim by threatening a personinto paying more than they can afford, not giving time to pay, and simply disregarding the person’s disabilities.Any entity that causes distress to another person should be made accountable, especially if they have no regard for the victims’ personal health and disabilities.
Type of harm to vulnerable adult– Emotional /Psychological
Meaning – Action or inaction by others that causes mental anguish.
Example – Action or inaction by others that causes mental anguish. Inflexible regimes and lack of choice. Mocking, coercing, denying privacy, threatening behaviour,bullying, intimidation, harassment, deliberate isolation, deprivation.
If British Gas denied or try to defend that they did not cause emotional distress then why would they have called the Police (Duty of Care) if that was not the case? British Gas could have pushed me over the edge, and they did cause me anguish, despair, and emotional distress.
I wrote not so long about ‘British Gas’ and the problems I am having with this company and have decided to write a separate update to the continuation of my saga.
British Gas:
Failed to support me with mental health disabilities
Failed to offer an affordable payment plan even though I told them that I had contacted their charity and asked them to give me more time.
Tried tointimidate me to pay £190 per month even though all I owed at the time was £318.74 (according to the threatening letter date 16th July 2022) as seen below:
Caused me emotional distress and as a consequence, they called the Police. (A riot van rocked up on my street and I could see the twitching of net curtains from my neighbours whilst I was publically humiliated because of ‘British Gas’).
Sent out intimidating a threatening letter and email.
Finally agreed today (27/07/22) to £70 per month which I have been saying from day dot after 3 months of arguing, but then retracted on 04/08/22.
Letter – Address Redacted.
Email Received 27/07/22 With Different Amount To The letter.
Yet today 27/07/22 it has gone up to £328.38 (charging me an extra £9.64, not sure what for? they have overcharged twice) with average usage of £40 per month. I have been paying £70 per month as this is all I can afford and they are now trying to bully me by passing my debt to a debt collecting agency. I stated I would share this far and wide if they continue to use underhanded methods and I will be seeking compensation for the distress this has caused me. If you overcharge 1 million customers £10 you make a 10 million profit.
As a consequence, I am now in arrears and have offered to pay £70 per month on the 6th of the month, including my own estimated Gas usage of £40 per month and my arrears spread over 12 months (I have reduced my usage purposely such as not cooking, washing up and am simply eating sandwiches and salads).
But British Gas are not having it, even going as far as to say “they do not support people with mental health or vulnerabilities“, (This was said on a recorded call). The customer rep I spoke with today 27/07/22 said that the previous customer rep was wrong in saying this and that British Gas does support people with mental health (but he would say).
Here are my meter readings which prove I use my own estimated usage of £40 worth of Gas on average a month.
“I Won’t Be Intimidated, I Know My Rights!”
Meter Reading 31st May 2022
Meter Reading15th June 2022 (If I submitted a meter reading on the 15th, why would I have an estimated meter reading on the 22nd for £9.64 it makes no sense, furthermore I got charged twice on the 22nd June 2022 & after the 16th July 2022 when the letter was sent out for the same amount, so in total, I was scammed £19.28).Meter Reading4th July 2022
Meter Reading 27th July – 4th August 2022 ( I have used zero gas other than my charges of 33p per day).
I emailed them on 26/07/22 and have stated the above omitting the latest meter reading which I added on 27/07/22 that if they push my buttons I will contact mainstream media journalists and ask them to write about “British Gas”. This company like every other relies on business, customers, and investors for their charity. It won’t look good if I start singing like a canary. In fact, it won’t look good having the title of this article “British Gas Customer Intimidation”, or “British Gas Bullying Vulnerable People” on my other blog. I’m sure I am going to get some eyeballs.
It is not my fault that prices have gone up and if one does not have the money, to begin with, how are they supposed to find the money to pay for something that the 1% only benefit from?
I have also come across a website that an ex-police officer wrote about regarding harassment, the article is dated (old) but it only enforces how I have personally been treated by this company: https://www.peterloud.co.uk/britishgasfraud/harassment.html
Accenture System
There is obviously a fault with the billing system: “Accenture systemcould have performed at101 percent efficiency. “British Gas uses bullying and is a threatening company whose call centre staff are among the most unpleasant and downright offensive, not to mention seemingly willfully ignorant and obtuse, in the market, and who wouldn’t know the meaning of customer management if you were to spell it out on their reply prompt screens“. Citation –https://www.mycustomer.com/marketing/technology/british-gas-what-difference-would-a-working-billing-system-have-made
Intimidation happens in all industries and workplaces. A person who has stated they have a disability for example at the time of their interview has their disability disregarded when they start work, especially if they look fine. Disabilities can be invisible and just because you look fine on the outside you may be in excruciating pain on the inside. I sit in front of a computer screen, you would not know I am disabled unless I told you and people like to make assumptions, so “if he/she can talk on the phone or turn up for work there must not be anything wrong with him/her“, …wrong to assume. An employee may not complain for fear of losing their job and this is where managers take advantage.
I believe my email to general enquiries will get ignored hence I am turning it up a notch and sending a second one to customer complaints, I will give them a few days to reply.
Email Customer Complaints at:customercomplaints@britishgas.co.uk (I sent an email to this email and never had a reply, just saying).
I will be forwarding the email I sent this morning to the above email address.
I won’t be intimidated and I will use my voice to be heard.
If I have any updates I will post them here, but as it stands they are trying to use bully tactics. I am also going to reach out to the mental health charity ‘MIND’ to tell them about this company.
The party is only just getting started…
UPDATE 27/07/22
After receiving the email today I decided to phone the complaints number. I guess people who phone the complaints number get treated differently. I did not go on my high horse ranting, I spoke calmly and I gave my latest meter reading and you will never guess the person with a South African accent said that my £190 prediction was totally wrong.
I had in fact since the 4th July 2022 only used £12 worth of gas including their standing charges, hence they would accept my £70 payment plan which was re-instated today 27/07/22.
“So all this stress and distress was for nothing”.
I honestly feel really unwell because of this company and as a consequence am finding it hard to contemplate my workload. I do feel very depressed because of them and feel they should compensate me for the emotional distress I have endured, I will wait and see how they respond to me in the next few days…
I did dispute the £9.64 and the customer representative said the £9.64 was from a bill generated on 22nd June yet I disputed this because my threatening letter dated 16th July 2022 would have reflected the bill on 22/06/22 and I received the inflated. (My threatening letter and my email does not marry up with my payments in the screenshot below). They are obviously pulling numbers out of a hat because I never gave them a meter reading on the 22/06/22 as shown in the meter readings above so where did the £9.64 come from? I was charged twice once when the bill was raised and again in my balance summary. Please refer to the screenshot of all my bills and payments. (If each customer has an extra £10 for argument’s sake added to their account for no reason and there are a million customers that would be £10M in profit that the company would make.
I have now been given two reference numbers the first for the £19.28 (I know it is a small amount but why should British Gas have extra money for the hell of it)?
Complaint number 1 7022412508 – £19.28 – Discrepancy
Complaint number 2 – 8013977142 – Treated Badly
I was told I have to wait 5 days to get a response… (which never happened – updated 04/08/22).
I have since logged into my account and screenshot my payment history and none of the balances reflect the amounts on my threatening letter or email that I received today, but they do reflect the £9.64 as mentioned by the person I spoke to today (although I never submitted a meter reading on the 22/06/22). The mind boggles.
Bills and Payments Summary.
UPDATE 04/08/22
OMG is all I can say. I decided to phone British Gas today in relation to the two complaints I made on 27/07/22 and was told that one complaint had been closed (the one where I was treated badly), oh really… who closed it and why?, and the woman I spoke to said that the complaint was about the £70 payment that had been set up but did not include my outstanding debt and that a debt collection would still come after me for the outstanding amount, which was now £344. She completely disregarded the fact that British Gas phoned the Police on me and the amount of anguish and emotional distress this company put me under. She kept asking what the Police had said when they arrived. The Police told me to let the CEO know and publish far and wide as they are getting a lot of calls with distressed people finding it hard to cope with utility providers and their bullying tactics.
My previous call on the 27th was a contradiction because:
When I phoned the complaints number today and after talking about my complaint I was told I had phoned the ‘Homecare Department’ and not complaints. I have the previous complaint number published in this article and programmed into my phone. (What I believe happens if they do not want to deal with you is they come up with a BS excuse that you dialed the wrong number).
The person I spoke with on the 27th said I would not have a debt collection agency chasing me but wait for it, today the woman I spoke to said the contrary, that a debt collection agency will continue to chase me and include debt collecting charges on top. I said that was a kick in the teeth considering I arranged a payment plan. (I think they move the goal posts as and when they please).
I received an email yesterday that I could choose to be on a variable or fixed tariff. I am currently on a variable which means if the prices go up, so will my bill. With a fixed tariff, it stays the same for 12 months. I did not understand what that meant other than if I switched to a different tariff I might be signing a contract that I could not move to another provider, (according to the woman I spoke to on 04/08/22 that is untrue, yet I have since found out this is a contract and there is a £100 transfer fee if you move to another provider. It is just as well I am not on a fixed tariff after all and do not believe the BS this company tries to feed me). The woman I spoke to today 04/08/22 said I was not eligible for a fixed tariff, so why send me an email giving me the option to switch? (Not that I want to be in any contract with this nightmare company).
I reiterated I wanted to pay manually online and the person I spoke to on the 27th understood that but sent out a magnetic card which according to the woman today meant I would NOT be able to pay online. She then continued to say I needed to set up a Direct Debit (not likely). Direct Debits allows British Gas or any organisation to help themselves to your bank account. She said as long as I made a payment today (which I did) no one would come chasing me. She also said she would text me with my complaint (I am still waiting).
I said I wanted British Gas to explain themselves how they have caused me ‘Emotional Distress’ and ‘how it has affected me’ and what they are going to do about it. I am now preparing to publish this article across all the social media platforms including LinkedIn where I have nearly 11K followers. Let’s see how much British Gas will lose in revenue and donations to their charity when my followers learn that British Gas has nearly pushed me to breaking point, with a header title I plan to use: ‘British Gas Phoned the Police On Me’, I wonder how many connections will take notice?. I also have Chris O’Shea’s email. To think I am advertising their charity as per the request of British Gas, yet they do not pay me for the backlinks.
Because of British Gas, my OCD has got worse, I have anxiety and panic attacks, I stress over everything, and have spiraled into a deep state of depression. I cannot face my neighbours because of the humiliation I endured. I struggle with work (I am self-employed and the Editor of this site, if I do not work, bills do not get paid). I am procrastinating and simply lack energy. This is affecting my health and my business.
Low and behold I phoned the second time today to double-check what the first agent had said and she basically told me (NO) payment plan has been set and the only way I can have a set price I can pay on a monthly basis is if I set up a Direct Debit (they are intimidating people to set up Direct Debits because what is wrong with setting up a standing order or paying manually, there is no difference other that they do not have access to your bank account) and that providing I pay in September I will not have anyone chasing me. I was told to phone back on 22/09/22. When I said how British Gas has been treating me because of the miscommunication she did not escalate a complaint and just said sorry and it won’t happen again (I DO NOT ACCEPT THE APOLOGY and I am going to take this further).
UPDATE 05/08/22
Trust No One. Even after speaking to two people yesterday both saying they have done a payment plan and checked up with a follow-up call no payment plans were set up. (What happened was on the 27th I had a magnetic card set up but the first agent I spoke to yesterday said I could not pay online and canceled the payment plan but then reinstated a cash plan. So the second agent I spoke to yesterday said the same, yet today I have a totally different explanation and eventually have a magnetic card re-instated with a fixed payment plan).
Lies after lies after lies. So today I phone up checking up on yesterday’s phone call and the guy says no payment plan was set up. (He went on to say with a magnetic payment card I do not have to use it and that I can also pay online which was a contradiction to what the agent said yesterday).
I am getting tired of the💩 because they keep insisting I need to set up a direct debit which would mean they could help themselves to my bank account when the prices get increased rather than stick to a set payment plan.
I then discussed both complaints I made on the 27th and basically I was offered £10.00 compensation for the two over charges of £9.64 each totaling £19.28 (they obviously cannot count), which I refused as this is all part of the one complaint and I am not accepting anything less than £xxxxx for the complaint about my ill-treatment and emotion distress and the scamming.
I told the guy I am finding it hard to work, I just about can make updates let alone anything else. If I cannot work I cannot pay my bills.
Not only am I an Editor of several publications, but I am also a website designer, content writer, and digital marketer www.irenata.com So if I cannot work because of ill health, how am I supposed to run my business (www.ukwebsitedesigners.co.uk)?
So regarding my complaint about the ill-treatment by this company the agent I spoke to today who had advice from his supervisor said that ‘British Gas’ do not offer compensation for emotional distress. So they can treat you like 💩 and get away with it. Absolutely disgusting company.
So after speaking to two agents today assuring me that my debt is included in my payment plan, you won’t believe what I have just received by email, only an email chasing me for the outstanding balance.
I have phoned this wretched company yet again (this is my 3rd call today) to sort this out. I am sick to the back teeth with the antics that are taking place. God forbid someone who is more vulnerable, like an elderly person or someone with worse mental health disabilities to me or anyone with cognitive impairment and cannot argue their case.
Despite two agents assuring me yesterday, that I would not be chased for my debt I get the email today chasing me for the debt, (you cannot make this up) screenshot below:
In the third and final call, I made today the woman told me to ignore the email I received today. But this is causing unnecessary stress which I could do without. I have contacted the charity for an update and they are just saying it may take another couple of weeks. If after all this my grievance goes on deaf ears I will share this on social media and make sure that investors think twice before donating to this company. This is a company that does not care about its customers and its workers. This is a company that can treat their customers badly and thinks they can get away with it, this is a company that is causing people to have mental health issues.
What about my‘HEALTH’ and other vulnerable people’s health, who have been treated just like me?
British Gas should not be able to treat people like something they stepped in and should be held accountable for their actions. British Gas nearly pushed me to breaking point as per the Police callout and they claim they will not compensate for the emotional distress I have endured, we will see about that…
Mr. Tibbles The Health Cat Reporter – Supporting Young Minds
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