Social Media Snooping: Why We Do It and How to Know When It’s Harmful
An ethical approach to social relationships
The Internet changed our lives. We can have a random question and easily find an answer with a simple Google search. We have knowledge at our literal fingertips, and it can make us insatiable to learn more. But sometimes, the things we want to know can fall into the category of None of Our Business.
We want to know anyway. In a world of instant gratification, it seems harmless enough to seek out information that is readily available. In a few clicks, we get our answers. But why do we have this impulse, and when does it become harmful?
Cyberstalking vs Cyber Snooping
Although “cyberstalking” is the more popular term, the truth is that much of what we’re calling stalking is actually snooping — and yes, there is a difference. The stalking behavior depicted in hit Netflix show Baby Reindeer is in a different league entirely from someone checking on a public status of a former partner or friend without ever making contact. Although stalking victims can be any gender, women are more often the targets according to The National Violence Against Women Survey. One in 12 women are likely to experience this behavior in their lifetimes.
