Summary
Social media deletion has been common when discussing topics such as racism, sexism, and discrimination. Nonviolent communication can be an effective tool in these situations.
Social media deletion has become an increasingly common phenomenon, especially when the debate touches on topics such as racism, sexism, or discrimination in general. The idea of publicly exposing and condemning someone can raise important discussions, but it also raises the question: can nonviolent communication (NVC) be an effective tool in these highly emotionally charged scenarios?
With nearly 30 years of experience in corporate communications, I have learned how profoundly the way we communicate impacts relationships. In the past, expressing feelings, especially in conflict, was seen as a weakness. Today, with NVC, we realize that the appropriate use of emotions can create productive dialogues, even in difficult contexts like social media deletions.
NVC, systematized by Marshall Rosenberg, encourages us to identify our own feelings and needs, as well as understand the emotions behind other people’s words. This, however, is especially difficult on social media, where interactions are rapid, impulsive, and intensely emotional.
NVC in the context of cancellation
When a public figure makes an offensive statement, it is common for the response to be public condemnation. This response can be important in highlighting injustices, but mass erasure tends to be punitive, leaving no room for reflection and authentic transformation. Instead of promoting profound change, it often leads to superficial apologies and defensiveness.
NVC proposes a different approach, which seeks to balance responsibility with the opportunity for transformation. It does not mean tolerating offensive attitudes, but creating a space in which the person who has made a mistake can reflect and learn from their mistakes. A difficult challenge, but possible.
5 NVC Tips for Those Who Want to Protest on Social Media
• Connect with your emotions before you react: Identify what you feel and which of your needs have been frustrated.
• Understand what motivated the other person: Prejudice can come from ignorance or fear. Understanding it can be more effective than simply canceling it.
• Practice active listening: read comments and criticisms with empathy before reacting, trying to interpret the emotions and needs behind the words.
• Take care of your communication: Stand firmly, but not aggressively. Express your needs without attacking the other party.
• Wait for the right moment to act: Avoid reacting in the heat of the moment. Waiting may lead to a more thoughtful response.
5 NVC Tips for the Deleted Person
• Listen with empathy: Instead of reacting immediately, try to understand the feelings behind the criticism.
• Take responsibility: recognize the impact of your words or actions and avoid superficial justifications.
• Be transparent about your reflection: Share what you’ve learned and how you plan to do things differently in the future.
• Offer an action plan: Describe how you will change your practices, demonstrating a true commitment to transformation.
• Give it time: change takes time. Continue to demonstrate with actions that show that you are genuinely willing to learn and evolve.
Balance between justice and dialogue
Applying NVC does not mean being complicit in harmful behaviors. Instead of focusing only on punishment, NVC proposes to promote a dialogue that encourages reflection and real change.
In this way, social media deletion can become an opportunity to educate and transform, rather than simply punish.
As Rosenberg said, “Behind every behavior is a need.” And perhaps if we can see that, we can contribute to a world where dialogue and justice go hand in hand, even on social media.
is a journalist specialized in accessible and productive communication and digital accessibility. She is a consultant, speaker, teacher at ESPM and coordinator of the Movimento Web para Todos.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
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