Click the link to view the full version: WASCZ | Boundaries of Online Social Speech in the Digital Age “Anti-Language Bullying”Law Awareness Lecture
“Have you ever thought that a line of text you casually type on your phone, or a picture you post, might hurt others and even change someone’s life?”
On the morning of September 18th and 23rd, our school theatre was packed for an important and engaging legal awareness lecture titled, “Don’t Let Malicious Words Become a Weapon.” This event was a key part of our school’s commitment to equipping students with the understanding and tools to stand against cyberbullying.
In recent years, as social media has become a central part of life, online verbal bullying has become a growing issue among teenagers, disrupting their studies and daily lives. To address this, our school invited judges from the Wujin District People’s Court. They used real-life cases to help students understand relevant laws, clarify common misunderstandings, and encourage responsible online behaviour. The discussion touched on the kinds of hurtful language that can hide in social media feeds, online forums, and group chats, clearly outlining what is legally acceptable and raising awareness among students at a crucial stage in their development.
“Using cases to explain the law” — straight to the heart. The judge began the session not with dry legal provisions, but with a powerful question that grabbed everyone’s attention. The first case discussed was about “Comments and Replies in WeChat Moments.” The judge broke down what exactly constitutes verbal bullying, its potential consequences, how courts make their rulings, and the legal responsibilities of those who start harmful topics or post inflammatory comments. Practical advice was also shared on how to avoid getting involved and how to respond constructively, which students found very helpful. A key takeaway was that while not every unkind remark is illegal, the line is much clearer than many assume.
“Doxxing and exposure” — not tolerated by law. Some students, with weak legal awareness, believe that the virtual online world allows them to do whatever they please. When disputes arise, they resort either to insults or to illegal practices such as “doxxing and exposing others.” By analysing cases, the judge explained what “doxxing and exposure” means and outlined the potential civil, administrative, and criminal liabilities that such behaviour could lead to. Additionally, such acts also result in disciplinary consequences under school rules. This logical and structured explanation was enlightening for the students.
“First insult, then counter-insult” — both bear responsibility. One particularly relatable case involved two students, A and B. Student A posted a vague yet insulting message on Moments, sparking speculation among their friends. When Student B, who felt targeted, found out, they posted a clarifying response. However, the response was also emotionally charged and insulting. The conflict then escalated into a public exchange of insults in a 33-person group chat. This is a classic example of how online disputes can spiral. The judge explained that both the initial insult and the retaliatory response are problematic under the law, though the degree of responsibility may differ. Student A couldn’t avoid blame just by not using a name if the target was clear to the group. Similarly, Student B’s emotional reaction didn’t excuse their use of offensive language. This case helped clarify a common confusion students face in online conflicts and provided practical guidance for future behaviour.
How should we respond to verbal bullying?
To conclude, the judge offered clear guidance based on the cases discussed. First, don’t start verbal bullying—be mindful and responsible with your words online. Second, steer clear of trouble—be cautious about adding contacts, creating groups, or spending time in spaces where conflict is likely. Third, if you encounter verbal bullying, take positive action: speak up against it, report it to a teacher, seek help to resolve the situation, and cooperate with any investigation. Fourth, refrain from spreading speech that harms others or disrupts harmony.
The hidden and unpredictable nature of online verbal bullying has long been a challenge for schools. Students need access to the internet and digital devices for learning, yet the distractions and potential harm from phones and laptops are real. That’s why, starting this semester, our school has launched a comprehensive effort to address bullying. This includes saying “no” to uncivilised language on campus and promoting “Clean and Bright Actions” for healthier online interactions. Over the summer, the school updated several key policies, covering rules on mobile phone and laptop use, internet and digital services, student behaviour and discipline, and the procedures for preventing and addressing bullying.
These updated guidelines have been shared through emails, parent and staff meetings, student assemblies, and advisory sessions. This lecture from the court was a key part of this effort. Moving forward, the school will continue this education through themed class meetings, advisory sessions, and weekly assemblies. The school counselling office will also open special channels to offer psychological support to affected students and behavioural guidance for those who need it. Through parent meetings and letters, we will encourage families to pay attention to their children’s online activities, helping to detect and stop verbal bullying early.
In the digital age, the power of words is magnified. They can warm hearts, but they can also cause deep hurt. Standing against verbal bullying is not just a legal obligation but a social responsibility for building a respectful community. We hope that all students will learn about and follow the law, understand the impact of their words and actions, learn to respect others, protect themselves, and work together to create a friendly and healthy environment in which everyone can grow.
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