If you look through your Facebook news feed and Twitter feed, you will realise the rising trend of screenshot posts from speech bubbles that are anonymous posts to the user from Sarahah app. It has been created by Zain al-Abidin and is already a hit in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with more than 20 million users in a few weeks.
But one can question this need for constant appraisal and conformity about oneself from peers. The reviews about the app suggest that it is not for the weak-hearted. While some may feed the circle of goodness by leaving positive comments, some may use the veil of anonymity to spew criticism and malign.
One wonders the strange tendency to affirm self-identity through such sporadic and ephemeral channels. Does it say something about the shallow nature of confidence resting with the present generation? Is it a symbol of the adverse effects of instant gratification that they have been conditioned to?
Sarahah is just one token in the long run towards the looming presence of social media in the present psychological make-up and mind-sets veered towards stop-gap complements and criticism instead of genuine appraisal and critique.
While one may fear the hostile environment being created by the availability of anonymity, one needs to acknowledge that these apps are closing the gap between personal and public spheres in life. It is a positive that people are fine with “honest” feedback and are actively seeking it. But one needs to beware of the power of social media apps to warp thinking and manipulate behaviour.
Beware of the digital monster lurking in the corner, and fortify your mind with a strong self-esteem before you bare yourself for open reviews.
