By Burnett Munthali
In recent years, social media has become an integral part of daily life for many Malawians, offering a platform for communication, information exchange, and entertainment. However, while social media is widely used, there remains a concerning trend where a significant number of Malawians appear to display unfriendliness or hostile behavior online. This research explores the underlying factors contributing to this phenomenon, examining cultural, psychological, and societal influences that shape the way Malawians engage on social media.
1) One key reason why some Malawians may not be friendly on social media is the sense of anonymity that comes with online interactions. Unlike face-to-face communication, social media allows individuals to hide behind avatars or pseudonyms, creating a detachment from the real-world consequences of their words. This anonymity often emboldens people to express themselves in ways they might not in person, leading to a more aggressive or unfriendly tone.
Additionally, the lack of accountability is another important factor. When users do not feel personally responsible for the impact of their comments, they are more likely to engage in toxic behavior, including insults, personal attacks, and negative comments. This is particularly prevalent in anonymous spaces such as comment sections and group chats, where people can express opinions without fear of repercussion.
2) Malawi’s cultural and social norms also play a role in shaping online behavior. In a society where respect for authority, elders, and social hierarchies is paramount, the informal and often unregulated nature of social media may clash with traditional expectations of politeness and deference. On social media, where individuals can freely share their opinions, there may be a breakdown in the usual checks and balances that regulate speech in offline interactions.
This clash between traditional norms and the informal nature of social media can result in misunderstandings, offensive remarks, and conflict, particularly when it comes to sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or social issues. The emotional charge around these topics can escalate online conversations, often resulting in unfriendly exchanges.
3) Another contributing factor is the political polarization that has become more pronounced in Malawi’s social media landscape. As the country moves through electoral cycles and contentious political debates, social media platforms become battlegrounds for expressing political opinions. Individuals often align themselves with particular political parties or movements, and this allegiance can result in hostility towards those with differing viewpoints.
The rise of echo chambers—online spaces where individuals are exposed only to ideas that align with their own—further exacerbates the problem. In these spaces, any dissenting opinion is often met with fierce opposition, resulting in toxic debates that discourage friendly interactions. The result is a deeply divided online environment where people are more likely to argue than to engage in constructive dialogue.
4) For some Malawians, social media has become a platform for venting frustrations, whether related to personal issues, political dissatisfaction, or societal challenges. The anonymity and perceived distance from the real world can make it easier for people to express their frustrations without fearing immediate consequences. As a result, social media becomes a space for complaining, criticizing, and blaming others rather than for positive interactions.
Moreover, individuals who experience economic hardship, social inequality, or injustice may use social media as a means of expressing their discontent with the system. While this can be seen as a legitimate form of activism, it can also lead to a negative tone that dominates online discourse, making the platform less friendly.
5) Psychologically, some Malawians may exhibit unfriendly behavior on social media due to the online disinhibition effect, a phenomenon where people feel less constrained by social norms and more liberated to express their innermost thoughts and emotions. The disconnect between the online and offline worlds can lead individuals to act in ways that they would not in person.
For instance, a person who may appear mild-mannered and respectful in real life may become more aggressive or provocative when communicating online. This effect can be particularly noticeable in interactions involving strangers, where individuals may feel they have less to lose and, therefore, may not worry about offending others.
6) Many Malawians may also lack the media literacy and understanding of online etiquette necessary to engage in respectful and friendly discourse on social media. Without a clear understanding of how to communicate effectively and empathetically online, some individuals may resort to miscommunication and hostile exchanges. This is often compounded by a lack of education about the consequences of online behavior, such as cyberbullying, harassment, or the spread of misinformation.
Social media platforms do not always provide clear guidelines on appropriate behavior, leaving individuals to navigate these spaces without much guidance. This can result in unfriendly interactions, especially when people feel that their opinions or beliefs are being attacked or misunderstood.
7) Finally, social media influencers and public figures in Malawi also play a significant role in shaping the tone of online interactions. When influential individuals engage in aggressive or polarizing rhetoric, their followers often mimic this behavior. The language of division, anger, and hostility becomes normalized, and social media users may adopt these negative communication styles.
The impact of public figures cannot be understated, as they have the ability to influence not only their followers but also the broader online community. When leaders, whether in politics, business, or entertainment, model unfriendly behavior, it sets a precedent for how others engage on these platforms.
In conclusion, the reasons why some Malawians are not friendly on social media are multifaceted. A combination of anonymity, cultural factors, political polarization, psychological effects, and lack of media literacy all contribute to the overall unfriendly tone observed online. As social media continues to grow in importance, it is crucial for Malawians to engage in constructive conversations, promote empathy, and encourage positive interactions that reflect the country’s values of respect, tolerance, and community.
Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from both individual users and stakeholders, including government bodies, social media companies, and civil society organizations. Through education, awareness campaigns, and a focus on fostering digital literacy, Malawi can create a more friendly and inclusive social media environment that benefits everyone.
