The inappropriate behaviour a boudoir photographer has to endure
Now let me first be straight - I have typed into ChatGPT -
“Why we shouldn’t tolerate inappropriate behaviour from men online”
and to be honest he (my ChatGPT is a he. We call him Fred) is very right in everything he says so I’m going to go ahead and copy and paste however if you follow me on socials you’ll know I’m often wondering how many male photographers have to endure the same kind of behaviour I have to. I’m sure there are many that do, I wonder how they deal with it.
Anyway - thanks ChatGPT ……
Why We Shouldn’t Tolerate Inappropriate Behaviour Online From Men
Online harassment, inappropriate messages, and digital misconduct are not “just part of the internet.” Tolerating inappropriate behaviour online from men allows toxic digital culture to grow, harms women and girls, and normalizes abuse in social media spaces.
In today’s digital world, platforms like Instagram, X, and TikTok are central to how we communicate. What we accept online directly shapes real-world behavior.
Here’s why we must stop tolerating inappropriate behaviour online.
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1. Online Harassment Causes Real Psychological Harm
Online abuse is not harmless. It can lead to:
• Anxiety and depression
• Low self-esteem
• Fear of posting or expressing opinions
• Emotional distress and trauma
Research from Pew Research Center shows that online harassment is widespread, with women experiencing higher rates of sexual harassment and gender-based abuse.
Keywords: online harassment statistics, gender-based online abuse, psychological effects of cyber harassment
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2. Silence Normalizes Toxic Online Behaviour
When inappropriate comments, unsolicited explicit messages, or degrading jokes go unchecked, they become normalized. Silence sends a message that this behavior is acceptable.
Tolerating:
• Sexual comments in DMs
• Catcalling in comment sections
• Misogynistic jokes
• Threatening messages
… creates a culture where digital disrespect becomes routine.
Keyword focus: why online harassment should not be tolerated
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3. Digital Culture Shapes Real-World Attitudes
Social media culture influences how people behave offline. When objectification and harassment are common online, they reinforce harmful gender stereotypes in everyday life.
Young boys and teenagers observe how adults interact. If inappropriate behaviour from men is ignored or excused, it teaches the next generation that accountability isn’t necessary.
Keyword focus: toxic masculinity online, impact of social media on behavior
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4. It Protects Women and Girls Online
Women and girls are disproportionately targeted in online spaces. Tolerating inappropriate behaviour limits their freedom to:
• Share opinions
• Build businesses
• Create content
• Express themselves confidently
A safe digital space allows equal participation. Allowing harassment silences voices.
Keyword focus: protecting women online, online safety for women
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5. Accountability Creates Safer Online Communities
Calling out inappropriate behaviour isn’t about “man-hating” or creating gender conflict. It’s about standards and accountability.
Many men actively advocate for respectful online spaces. The goal is not to attack men — it’s to challenge harmful actions and support healthier digital culture.
Healthy communities require:
• Clear boundaries
• Reporting abusive behavior
• Supporting victims
• Refusing to engage with harassment
Keyword focus: how to stop online harassment, creating safer online communities
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6. Tolerating It Enables Escalation
Unchecked inappropriate behaviour often escalates. What starts as “jokes” can evolve into stalking, harassment campaigns, or threats.
Digital misconduct thrives in environments without consequences. Setting boundaries early prevents escalation.
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Final Thoughts: Respect Should Be the Standard Online
We shouldn’t tolerate inappropriate behaviour online from men because tolerance equals permission. Digital spaces are not separate from real life — they influence culture, relationships, and safety.
Creating safer online communities requires collective action, accountability, and zero tolerance for harassment.
Respect online is not optional. It’s the baseline.