The Psychology of Online Bullying with Therapist Ryan Wynder

Send us Fan MailWhat kind of society are we creating when cruelty becomes entertainment?This week on Ava Devine's Bad Advice, I sit down with therapist Ryan Wynder to unpack a question that emerged after I became the target of public online ridicule, body shaming, and harassment: Why do some people build audiences by mocking, humiliating, and degrading others?Together, we explore the psychology behind bullying, public humiliation, and internet outrage culture. Ryan breaks down concepts like dehumanization, projection, group validation, cognitive distortions, and the emotional rewards people receive from putting others down. We discuss why cruelty is often disguised as humor, how social media amplifies toxic behavior, and why online attacks can have real consequences for the people on the receiving end.We also examine body shaming, promiscuity shaming, ageism, LGBTQ+ discrimination, toxic masculinity, parasocial relationships, and the double standards that continue to shape public conversations about women, sexuality, and adult entertainment.Most importantly, this episode is about remembering that behind every profile, every headline, and every viral clip is a real human being with feelings, experiences, and dignity.So get cozy if you're watching from home and turn up the volume if you're listening. This is Ava Devine's Bad Advice.Topics Covered:• The psychology of online bullying• Public humiliation and body shaming• Why cruelty gets disguised as comedy• Dehumanization and internet culture• Projection, insecurity, and group validation• Toxic masculinity and outrage content• Promiscuity shaming and double standards• LGBTQ+ discrimination and social stigma• Social media, anonymity, and trolling• Coping with online harassment• Trauma, resilience, and self-worth• Why every person deserves dignityFollow Ava DevineInstagram: @theoneandonlyavadevineTikTok: @1avadevineFollow Ava Devine's Bad Advice PodcastInstagram: @avadevinesbadadviceTikTok: @avadevinesbadadviceX: @avadevinespodFollow Ryan WynderInstagram: @thevegastherapistSubmit your questions for the [email protected]