Social media algorithms are designed to keep people scrolling.
They prioritize content that triggers strong emotions—anger, fear, shock, humiliation.
👉 Bullying content often:
- Gets more comments
- Gets shared faster
- Sparks arguments
- Keeps users “engaged”
So, the system amplifies it, even when it harms someone.
Bullying Spreads Faster Than Kindness
Kindness is quiet.
Bullying is loud.
Algorithms push:
- Controversy over compassion
- Mockery over empathy
- Humiliation over healing
A cruel post can be shown to thousands before anyone reports it—sometimes before an adult ever sees it.
The Algorithm Doesn’t Understand Pain
Algorithms don’t see:
- Tears
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fear
- Trauma
They only see:
- Clicks
- Watch time
- Shares
- Reactions
So, a child’s worst moment can become viral content without context or accountability.
Victims Can’t “Log Off” the Harm
In the past, bullying ended when school ended.
Now it follows kids:
- Home
- Bedtime
- Weekends
- Holidays
The algorithm resurfaces harmful content again and again reminding the victim they’re being watched, judged, and targeted.
5️⃣ Silence Looks Like Approval to an Algorithm
When people don’t comment—but still watch—the system assumes:
“This content is valuable.”
So even quiet viewers unintentionally help spread bullying.
6️⃣ Children Are Trapped in a System They Didn’t Design
Kids didn’t write the code.
They didn’t choose the incentives.
They didn’t agree to be test subjects.
Yet they pay the emotional price.
The Hard Truth
The algorithm doesn’t bully—but it enables bullies.
And until safety is weighted heavier than engagement, the harm continues.
What Actually Helps
- Adult supervision and education
- Clear reporting systems
- Teaching kids to be upstanders, not bystanders
- Holding platforms accountable
- Giving families tools to protect themselves
“If bullying is the fire, the algorithm is the gasoline.”
Copyright Ray Walton 2025
If you or someone you know is struggling due to bullying, help is available:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 (24/7)
- Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741
- Music and content copyrighted by Ray Walton 2025 all rights reserved