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The Internet has definitely increased the proliferation of such behavior.

Has it? Do we have any reason to believe this is definite? Moreover, do we have any evidence that this behavior didn't exist or existed at a lesser scale 30 years ago? Maybe the GP simply did not see it happening.

Either way it seems like speculation, maybe it should be presented as such instead of stating it as fact?

Insisting on evidence that proves a negative claim is an impossible standard. In the absence of evidence one can assume that a statement is anecdotal, especially when information like location and timeframe are not included.

I guess I could have been more clear-

I don't believe these anecdotes reflect reality, and I don't think they really bring anything of substance to the conversation. It's borderline alarmist at best.

If you played xbox or something similar 10 years ago I think you would agree. Nonetheless, I am happy to be wrong in this situation. YMMV

Mean kids said all sorts of insulting things, but it was more related to personal appearance (fat, ugly etc.) or "your mama" jokes.

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