Although it has always been a thing, slut shaming is happening more and more these days. The social media channels in particular make it very easy. But what exactly does slut shaming actually mean? And what do we do about it? We will tell you in this article.
What does slut shaming mean?
Criticizing, humiliating or ridiculing people because of their sexual behavior is considered slut shaming. Girls and women in particular suffer from this form of bullying. When they do not behave according to traditional gender roles, they are quickly called ‘slut’ or ‘whore’. The victims of slut shaming may be judged for the number of bed partners, their explicit clothing style and even for having a strong opinion. It happens both online and offline. Not cool!
Why slut-shame people?
Indeed: why? Why put someone down just because her behavior supposedly doesn’t fit traditional gender roles? There are several possible explanations for this bullying behavior. Insecurity or jealousy is one of them. The moment someone feels intimidated by a girl, there is a good chance that someone will start slut-shaming. They do this to boost their own self-confidence or to undermine someone’s position. In addition, it is possible that someone does not know how to deal with rejection well. Which causes the person to slut-shame the other person out of revenge, purely to make themselves feel better. Finally, social status may also be a factor in slut shaming. For girls it is a way to distinguish themselves from the ‘bad’ girls. And for the boys it is a way to affirm their masculinity.
What should you do about it?
Anyway, slut-shaming is bullshit. Unfortunately, not everyone understands this and something needs to be done about it. But how? The task lies with parents and educators to teach children that everyone can experience their sexuality in their own way. In addition, the role of bystanders is also very important: speak to a slut-shamer directly about his or her behavior. This way you let the victim know that they are not alone.
Certain forms of slut shaming are even punishable. This includes secondary sexting and revenge porn. If you find yourself in such a situation and want to report it to the police, collect as much evidence as possible. Even in situations that are not punishable, but where you are the victim of online slut shaming, it is smart to report this to the social media platform.
Have you been a victim of slut shaming? Then talk about it with friends, family or someone else you trust. Let them help and support you. Because it is certainly not your fault!
