What is Cyberbullying? Cyberbullying can be defined as willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices.
Pictured on the left is the cover of Time Magazine from October 2010, addressing the rising problem with Cyberbullying. The heading states "Why technology makes it meaner". Unfortunately, Cyberbullying has been increasing drastically throughout the years and causing depression, social anxiety, and even suicides. In 2010, the Cyberbullying Research Center conducted a study of 11-18 year old students. Out of the 4,400 students surveyed, over 20% said that they had been a victim. So why is it getting worse? Where does it commonly occur? What are the signs for parents to watch out for? I'm here to address some of the questions and provide some resources that address the topic.
Cyberbullying Research Center FAQ's
Q: What are some of the negative effects of cyberbullying?
A: Many targets of cyberbullying report feeling depressed, sad, angry or frustrated. Victims also reveal that they felt afraid or embarrassed to go to school. In addition, research has revealed a link between cyberbullying and low self-esteem, family problems, academic problems, school violence and delinquent behavior.
Q: Where does Cyberbullying commonly occur?
A: Cyberbullying occurs across a variety of venues and mediums in cyberspace, most commonly where teens congregate. In recent years, most youths have been drawn to social networking websites. and video sharing websites. Instant messaging on the internet and text messaging via cell phone also appear to be common ways in which the youth are harassing each other.
Q: What are the biggest challenges in the fight to stop cyberbullying?
A: There are two challenges today that make it difficult to prevent cyberbullying. First, many people don't see the harm associated with it. Some attempt to dismiss or disregard cyberbullying because they believe there are other more serious forms of aggression. We need to accept that fact that cyberbullying will only get worse if ignored. The second challenge is that no one will step up to take responsibility for responding to the inappropriate use of technology. Parents say the do not have the tech skills to keep up with their kids online behavior; Teachers are afraid to intervene; and law enforcement is hesitant to get involved unless there is a clear threat or crime.
Tips for Educators
What schools should do about sexting:
Many adults and authority figures find themselves ill‐ equipped to deal with sexting and its consequences. It is important that any adult who is made aware of naked or semi-naked images of minors act quickly to limit the extent of harm that may result. Educators should work with their school resource office or other police officer contact to collect any evidence and investigate the incident to determine its nature.
To avoid legal liability in instances of sexting, it is highly recommended that school administrators only confiscate the devices, and let law enforcement search its contents and call logs.
Another great resource for teachers are form to help record incidents of cyberbullying within the school or classroom. These forms can be put in a students file and can be discussed in a parent teacher conference if necessary. The forms include the students names involved in the incident, a description of the event, and a signature from the principal of the school. I feel like these would be great for all teachers to have in their classroom so that there is a consistent procedure in the even of an incident.
Tips for Parents
Warning signs to look for with your child:
A child or teenager might be a victim of cyberbullying if he or she:
Unexpectedly stop using their cell phone or computer
Appears nervous or jumpy when an instant message appears
Appears uneasy about going to school or outside in general
Appears to be angry, depressed or frustrated after using their cell phone or computer
Avoids discussions about what they are doing on the phone or computer
What can parents do?
The best thing parents can do when they suspect their child is a victim of cyberbullying is to make sure they feel safe and secure and to convey unconditional support. If necessary, a parent should explain the importance of scheduling a meeting with school administrators to discuss the matter. The police should also be notified if physical threats are involved or a crime has taken place.
Overall, parents should educate their kids about appropriate online behaviors. They should also monitor their childs activities while online. Cultivate and maintain an open, candid line of communication with your children so they are ready to come to you with anything.
Family Cell Phone Contract
Tips for Students
Social Networking websites such as myspace and Facebook are useful internet tools to keep in touch with friends and meet new people. If used properly, these sites are great resources for the youth. Too often, teens are including too much personal information and discuss innapropriate behaviors. Follow these guidelines to use social networking sites safely and responsibly.
Assume everyone has access to your profile
Use discretion when posting on your page
Assume people will use the information you have on your profile to cause you harm
Assume there are predators out there trying to find you
You may be held responsible for the content on your profile
The Cyberbullying Research Center gives the top 10 tips for students to prevent cyberbullying
Educate yourself
Protect your password
Keep photo's "PG"
Never open unidentified messages
Log out of online accounts
Pause before you post
Raise awareness
Setup privacy controls
"Google" yourself
Don't be a cyberbully yourself
Cyberbullying Quiz!
Students can also take quizzes, like this one, to test their cyberbullying knowledge. The quiz on the Cyberbullying Research Center is only about 10 questions but can help greatly to raise awareness and make students realize that even meaningless criticism or remarks can lead to cyberbullying.
There is also a poster that educators can post in their classrooms so that students know that cyberbullying will not be tolerated in the classroom. Pictured below
In addition, parents can print out this easy cell phone contract for the family to abide by in terms of safety and discretion with their phones. A contract is a great way to let your child know that it is a serious issue and the rules need to be followed. Now that children of all ages are getting cell phones for safety and communication purposes, I think it is best to be sure that younger kids are really only using their phones for its intended purpose.