In 2022, an Indonesian TikTok user filmed a neighbor allegedly mistreating a stray cat. Within hours, the video was reposted across platforms with captions calling for the neighbor’s identification and punishment. Thousands of users watched, commented insults, and shared personal data. The neighbor later uploaded a tearful apology — which was met with renewed mockery. One comment read: “Kita nonton berbalas kejam sekarang” (“We’re watching each other cruelly now”).
However, this behavior can have serious psychological implications. Research has shown that repeated exposure to violent or disturbing content can lead to desensitization, where individuals become less empathetic and more accepting of violence. This can have long-term effects on mental health, social relationships, and even behavior. nonton berbalas kejam