How Social Contagion Impacts Christians
This second part of the 2-part series will focus on social media conflicts and tensions with Christian communications. There are times when you can get caught up in debating, and even at times arguing, through on line communications with others you have never met or know.
It is very common for people to read into a post or comment without understanding what the writer actually means. That happens because most are not writers, and have a strong opinion of what they think others should adapt to or just plain accept as a Christian.
Navigating conflicting community opinions requires empathy, discernment, calmness and effective communication. Here are some strategies that should help guide you through the social media maze:
UNDERSTANDING CONFLICTS:
Recognize differing opinions and perspectives based on cultural and personal biases of those writing or speaking. Acknowledge influences of others opinions and how it actually influences you, and keep-in-mind that scriptural interpretations will, and do vary depending on how someone reads Holy Bible scripture and their personal interpretation.
NAVIGATING CONFLICTS:
Be an active listener, and engage with opposing views through respectful dialogue. Foster open, calm discussions while you seek common ground through focus on shared values.
DISCERNMENT:
Evaluate opinions against scriptural teachings by checking Holy Bible verses and through prayer and reflection. And always seek God’s wisdom in prayer, and guidance from mature Christian believers to guide you.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION:
Use clear expression when you articulate your perspective, and be emphatic to others concerns, while offering constructive feedback and respectful criticism as a Christian.
PRACTICAL TIPS:
Stay calm and composed.
Avoid assumptions.
Focus on understanding.
MANAGING SOCIAL MEDIA CONFLICTS
Managing social media conflicts requires strategic approaches to maintain peace and respect. Here are some personal tips:
PREVENTION:
Keep clear boundaries and establish guidelines for online interactions. Use a respectful tone while fostering constructive dialogue, and always avoid controversy and steer clear of sensitive topics. These can drag you unwillingly into a destructive debate.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION:
Stay calm and respond thoughtfully, not impulsively. Being impulsive is easy in social media and can happen before you even know. You should listen (or read) actively and try to understand opposing views, focus on issues and above all avoid personal attacks.
ONLINE ETIQUETTE:
Be respectful of everyone and use polite language, while avoiding assumptions and always clarify any misunderstandings. Using emoticons wisely can help you convey tone and intent.
SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:
Block, mute or limit harmful interactions, and always report abuse. Also, take breaks and step away for self-care by relaxing and alleviating any built up stress or anger before responding.
DE-ESCALATING ONLINE TENSIONS
De-Escalating online tensions requires strategic communication and conflict resolution techniques. Here are steps to help:
STAY CALM AND ASSESS:
Take a pause and step away before responding. Understand the comments context, and identify your triggers, and recognize sensitive topics that may trigger you even further. There are times you read into what is written without truly understand and that will upset or anger you. If necessary, clarify with the writer (or speaker) what they meant for a better understanding.
DE-ESCALATION STRATEGIES:
Acknowledge any concerns you may have, and use calming language with a soften tone and words while you seek common ground and find any common shared interests.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION:
Be clear and concise and avoid ambiguity while you respond thoughtfully. Use open-ended questions to encourage further dialogue.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION:
Focus on the issues and avoid personal attacks while seeking solutions: Collaborate on resolutions and agree to disagree: Always respect differing views.
PRACTICAL TIPS:
Use emoticons to convey tone.
Set boundaries and expectations.
Engage with constructive criticism.
Seek wisdom from mentors.
Some Questions to Think About:
How do you manage online stress?
What role does empathy play in conflict resolution?
What role does humility play in conflict resolution?
How do you maintain online boundaries?
How do you handle disagreements?
How do you maintain unity among differences?
BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES:
Proverbs 15:1: Respond gently.
Matthew 5:9: Be peacemakers.
Matthew 18:15-17: Address conflicts privately.
Ephesians 4:29-32: Speak life-giving words.
Proverbs 15:1: Respond gently.
Romans 14:1-15:7: Accept differences.
1 Corinthians 13:1-3: Prioritize love.
Ephesians 4:1-16: Maintain unity.
We hope this series of Social Contagion tips will help you navigate the social media contagion that is so prevalent in today’s social world. If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please write them in the comments box, or email us directly to the email addresses below. Thanks for visiting.
H John & Jean
Our Divided World Ministry
john@ourdividedworld.com
jean@ourdividedworld.com
https://ourdividedworld.com
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