In a world where our lives are played out on social media, there is an “InstaStalker.” The name sounds menacing but it is not about freaks in the dark. It’s a tool, an idea even; sometimes it’s how people have to think when they’re negotiating Instagram and its ilk at large.
Usually known as InstaStalking, is the act of scrutinising someone’s instagram profile, posts, stories and activities. It is digital surveillance within publicly available limits. There are no illegal or unethical elements to InstaStalking unlike cyberstalking.
Curiosity: People are naturally curious creatures. We want to know what other people are doing, what they’re posting and how they present themselves online.
Comparison: Social media platforms thrive on comparison. People may instastalk others to measure their own lives against those of their peers or idols.
FOMO: Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) can be a driving force behind InstaStalking – nobody wants to miss crucial events, updates or trends in the lives of those they follow.
Relationships: Whether it’s romantic interests, friends or family members – through instastalking we can get glimpses into the worlds of people we care about most deeply.
Entertainment: Let’s be honest here – sometimes instastalking is just plain entertaining. It’s like watching reality TV unfold before your eyes with each post adding another twist in the plotline!
Excessive Monitoring: If you find yourself checking someone’s profile multiple times per day then maybe take a step back and think about why that might be happening…
Emotional Investment: Have you ever felt really happy (or really sad) because of what someone did on social media? You might want to consider if you're too emotionally invested in their online presence.
Comparative Behaviors: Continuously comparing yourself against somebody else's carefully crafted digital self can leave you feeling pretty rubbish about your own existence!
Boundary Violations: Have you ever commented on an old photo? Accidentally liked something from years ago? You’re not alone – but it’s crucial to respect people’s boundaries even in cyberspace.
Respect Privacy Settings: If somebody has a private profile then it is important that we respect their decision regarding who can see what they post.
Avoid Judgment: It is all too easy to make snap judgements based on what we see of others’ lives through social media, but always remember that this represents only a fraction of anyone else’s story.
Set Boundaries: Know when healthy curiosity tips over into intrusive behaviour and be sure to respect the limits that people set – both online and in person.
Pay Attention to Yourself: Rather than being concerned about what others appear to be like on the internet, concentrate on building up genuine relationships and offline activities.
The Main Idea
Often driven by interest, jealousy, or yearning for interaction, InstaStalking is a very typical activity brought about by the digital revolution. It may seem enjoyable or even instructive at times; however, one should bear in mind that this must be done with care towards one’s privacy as well as respect for other people’s boundaries. By establishing limits, keeping things in perspective and prioritizing our personal worlds we can approach social media monitoring ethically and empathetically. Remember – curiosity does no harm but kindness does more good.