Respect has always been a core value in Filipino families. We teach our children to say “po” and “opo,” respect their elders, and be polite in conversations. But in today’s world, respect is being challenged in ways we never experienced growing up. The digital world has given young people more access to information, trends, and entertainment—but not all of it is positive.
Many young people are being exposed to subtle and hidden forms of disrespect—especially online. These influences may seem harmless, but over time, they shape attitudes and behaviours that affect how they treat others, particularly women and children.
As parents and guardians, we can’t monitor everything our children see, but we can guide them in making better choices. The Stop It at the Start campaign provides free resources to help Filipino-Australian families understand these hidden trends of disrespect and start important conversations at home.
Is this just harmless fun?
Imagine this: You overhear your teenage son laughing while watching a video online. Curious, you take a peek and see a clip mocking a girl’s appearance.
“It’s just a joke, Mum,” he says, brushing it off.
But is it really?
What seems like harmless fun could be part of a bigger problem—hidden trends of disrespect that young people are exposed to every day, both online and offline. As Filipino parents, titos (uncles), titas (aunties), and guardians, we play a huge role in shaping how they see and treat others.
The Stop It at the Start campaign is here to help us start these important conversations and guide the younger generation toward respect.
What are the hidden trends of disrespect?
Disrespect isn’t always loud and obvious. Sometimes, it’s in subtle jokes, online trends or social media challenges that normalise the mistreatment of others—especially women.
Some common examples include:
- Mocking girls for expressing opinions – Calling them “too sensitive” or saying they “can’t take a joke.”
- Boys being told they must be “tough” all the time – Discouraging emotions and forcing harmful ideas about masculinity.
- Social media trends that degrade others – Viral videos or memes that encourage bullying in the name of “entertainment.”
- Overexposure to content that promotes power imbalance in relationships – Teaching young people that disrespect is normal.
How can we help? Practical tips and free resources
The Australian Government’s Stop it at the Start campaign has created free, easy-to-use resources to help Filipino families start these conversations.
1. The Hidden Trends of Disrespect Guide
What it is: A simple guide explaining how social media influences young people’s views on respect.
How to use it: Read it together with your kids and ask: “What do you think about this? Have you seen anything like this online?”
Download the guide in Filipino (Tagalog) here: www.respect.gov.au/filipino
2. The pocket guide to respectful conversations
What it is: A short guide on how to talk about respect without it feeling like a lecture.
How to use it: Instead of saying “Don’t do that”, try asking open-ended questions:
“Why are you watching that?”
“What do you think about that video? Do you think it’s fair?”
This approach makes young people feel heard and encourages them to reflect on their own behaviour.
Download the guide here: www.respect.gov.au/filipino
3. The Algorithm of Disrespect (Interactive Tool)
What it is: An interactive tool that helps adults experience what young people go through online.
How to use it: Test it yourself, then show your child and ask: “Did you know social media works like this?”
Try it here: www.respect.gov.au
Let’s Make Respect a Habit, Not Just a One-Time Conversation
Teaching kids about respect isn’t a one-off lecture—it’s a daily habit.
- Encourage open conversations.
- Watch what they watch.
- Listen without judgment.
And most importantly, set an example. If we want them to be kind, respectful, and open-minded, we should show them how.
Respect starts at home. Let’s make sure the next generation carries it forward.
For more resources, visit: www.respect.gov.au/filipino
Key Takeaways in Filipino (Tagalog)
- Ano ang “Nakatagong Uso ng Kawalang-Galang” at paano ito nakakaapekto sa ating mga anak? (What are the “Hidden Trends of Disrespect,” and how do they affect our children?)
- Paano natin magagamit ang mga libreng mapagkukunan ng kampanya upang turuan sila ng respeto? (How can we use the free resources from the campaign to teach them respect?)
- Bakit mahalaga ang bukas at patuloy na pag-uusap sa pamilya tungkol sa respeto at tamang asal? (Why is it important to have open and ongoing conversations in the family about respect and proper behaviour?)
Let’s work together to build a more respectful future for our children.
This article was paid for by the Australian Government’s Stop it at the Start campaign.
