By Michael M’mata

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us with friends and family, allowing us to share our thoughts and experiences, and providing a platform for us to express ourselves.

However, with the ability to connect comes the potential for conflict and negative interactions.

One way to deal with this is by blocking people on social media.

But what are the pros and cons of this action?

Pros:

1. Protection from harassment and bullying

Blocking someone on social media can provide a sense of safety and security, particularly for those who have experienced harassment or bullying online.

2. Control over one’s own mental health

Social media can be a breeding ground for negativity and drama, and blocking someone who consistently causes stress or anxiety can help maintain a positive mental state.

3. Personal Boundaries

Blocking someone can serve as a way to set and maintain personal boundaries, particularly in situations where someone may be attempting to contact or interact with you against your will.

Cons:

1. Limited perspective

Blocking someone can limit the diversity of perspectives and ideas one may encounter online.

It can also lead to a filter bubble where one is only exposed to ideas that align with their own beliefs.

2. Missed opportunities

Blocking someone may mean missing out on important information or updates from that person, particularly if they are a business contact or someone you have a professional relationship with.

3. Lack of accountability

Blocking someone on social media can be seen as an easy way out of dealing with a difficult situation, rather than addressing the issue head-on and holding the person accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, blocking someone on social media can be a useful tool for protecting oneself from negativity and setting personal boundaries.

However, it is important to weigh the potential pros and cons before taking this action, as it may limit the diversity of perspectives and ideas one encounters online, miss important information or updates, and avoid accountability for difficult situations.