Edwina Paintsil, a counselling psychologist at the University of Ghana Careers and Counselling Directorate (UGCCD), has cautioned students against sharing nude photos and videos on social media.
She gave the advice in an exclusive interview with Univers News following a viral video involving a student reportedly from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
According to her, students whose private images are circulated online often experience severe emotional and psychological distress, which can affect their self-worth and public image.
“Emotionally, it can affect you. You tend to feel anxious. Some people even get depressed because they become sad and confused about how a private image ended up in the wrong hands,” she explained.
She added that victims often worry about public perception, including how family, friends, and the wider community may judge them, which can further worsen anxiety and depression.
Edwina Paintsil advised students to avoid taking or sharing such content entirely. However, she noted that if individuals feel compelled to take such images, they should ensure their identity is not visible.
“First of all, I would say don’t share, don’t take such pictures. But if by any chance you have taken them, do so in a way that your face or anything that identifies you is not visible,” she said.
She further urged students to be more mindful of their digital footprint and the long-term consequences of sharing sensitive content online.
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Story by Chrispin Nhyira Agyekum | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
