Sadfishing: students who seek support online may face backlash

A group of private-school leaders has warned that vulnerable young people who go online to seek support can face a backlash of bullying and accusations of “sadfishing” from their peers.

The findings come from a Digital Awareness UK report commissioned by the Headmasters’ and Headmistress’ Conference, which claims that “sadfishing” is a “growing behavioural trend” whereby people seek sympathy online by making “exaggerated” statements about their emotional problems. The report goes on to state that the pervasiveness of sadfishing means that students with serious mental health problems may be bullied, either face-to-face or online, for what is seen as attention-seeking behaviour. It also found that young people could be targeted by groomers, who use this public emotional vulnerability to build up a connection.

Chris Jeffery, the chair of the HMC wellbeing working group and headmaster of Bootham school in York, said: “It is encouraging to read of the growing signs of increased control that many young people are taking over their use of technology, but it is also helpful to know new ways in which it is proving to be a burden for them as well.”

Young people who seek support online being accused of 'sadfishing'(The Guardian) Vulnerable pupils bullied online over 'sadfishing' (TES) 'Sadfishing' social media warning from school heads (BBC) Do teachers want Labour to abolish Ofsted? Are you anxious about anxiety? And other findings this week… (Teacher Tapp) Sadfishing: Social media trend threatens teenagers’ mental health, report warns (Independent)

Why should this matter to me?

As internet use is now ubiquitous amongst young people, it’s important for teachers, parents and students themselves to be aware of the potential dangers and pitfalls of maintaining an online presence. Stories like this one make more people aware of the need for education and safeguarding around internet use. Tools and apps designed to keep young people safe online could potentially fill this role – so too could teaching aids and information. What’s clear is that teachers and parents are always seeking resources in order to stay up-to-date with the latest trends that may affect young people’s mental health and safety.