When Political Discussions Become Toxic


I can be quite a passionate person. When I have a cause that is near and dear to my heart, I can run full speed ahead for the justice I feel is deserved. This does not always make me popular amongst my online "friends." There have been a number of "battles" fought over political and social beliefs. I must admit that even thought many come as a result of others arguing on my initial posts, there are times I comment on others posts and get the fire started. I wonder if this sounds familiar to you?

In a world of Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms, it is easy to find an argument to engage in. Sometimes the argument is with our closest friends and family. Historically, there were two things you never discussed at the dinner table - religion and politics. What topics do we commonly see discussed on social media?  Religion and politics. This can be a recipe for disaster, especially when holiday functions and family get-togethers include those with whom you have engaged in debate.

One important thing to be aware of is how you are engaging in the debate and whether you are engaging in toxic behavior. Are you name-calling, making assumptions, attacking others whose opinions differ from yours? Are you finding yourself getting heated and angry over the debate? Are your reply comments posted before giving yourself time to consider others' intentions?

Another important thing to consider is whether you are allowing abusive debate aimed at you continue. Are you continuing to engage with an individual who is name-calling, becoming belligerent, or attacking you personally? Do you find yourself repeating things because the other person is going in circles? Are you feeling hurt and finding yourself becoming defensive during the debate?

In either of these scenarios, it is likely best to refrain from the debate and take yourself out of it. Even if this step backward is only for a period of time, this allows you to cool down, think about the dynamics of the debate and what purpose your involvement serves. It IS okay to refuse to engage with those who become abusive towards you. It is also NOT okay to become abusive towards others.

Linked below is an article on how to make political discussions more productive, if you choose to engage in them. Remember, however, just because you may be "playing by the rules" does not mean everyone else is. There may be those out there that will refuse to engage in productive debate and those are individuals you may want to avoid, block, or otherwise disengage with.

How to Make Political Conversations More Productive

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