That’s why it’s our responsibility - not just as parents, leaders, or educators, but as everyday internet users - to build awareness. To pause before we share. To sharpen our critical thinking. And to understand how easily information spreads, whether it’s true, false, or intentionally harmful.
Memes are a form of communication. Using an image, video, GIF, or other viral content, individuals can simplify an idea. Often, text is overlaid to make the meme more specific to a situation or ideology. Online, memes spread fast. And while some are humorous, others are harmful. Extremist groups use memes to gently introduce their ideologies. Politicians use them to galvanize voters. Because meme culture is so common among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, they are especially vulnerable to internalizing harmful memes without recognizing the impact.
Before sharing a meme, take a moment to understand its intent. If you don’t fully understand it, don’t share it.
At our core, we all want belonging. We want to be seen. And yes, the internet can provide that. But not everyone online has good intentions. Some take advantage of those who are simply trying to meet a basic human need.
The dark corners of the internet prey on people who don’t feel like they fit into the “real world.” A false sense of community lures them in. They begin to follow the codes of that space, adopt the language, and behave in ways that mirror the group. They feel like they are part of something, and nothing else matters. In the wrong corner, where jokes are hateful and ideas harmful, that sense of belonging can become dangerous.
Social media apps reward engagement. And what better way to spark engagement than with something shocking? The more unbelievable—yet still slightly believable—the better. This game has created an internet landscape littered with false information.
When someone intentionally shares content they know is false, that’s disinformation. When someone else then shares that same content, believing it to be true, that’s misinformation. Both spread harm. The algorithm may reward it, but the real-world consequences are damaging. If something isn't true, don't share it.
Be present online. Pause before sharing content, especially if it’s emotionally charged. Privately message individuals who share harmful content (don’t comment—the algorithm will only boost it as engagement). Report dangerous posts to the platform hosting them. And always ask yourself: Is this a bot? Is this a troll? If yes, don’t engage.
It’s easy to dismiss harmful online behavior as “just internet stuff.” But the internet is no longer separate from the real world, it’s an extension of it, just without the rules. The next time you see someone behaving in an odd or extreme way online, don’t shrug it off. Take it seriously. Because what happens online never truly stays there.
This blog is just the beginning. If you’re ready to go deeper, POP’s self-paced course, "Balanced & Connected," unlocks October 20th. You can sign up now, and your course will activate on launch day.
