Why you should worry about cyber bullying

The modern world brings forth new inventions every day. We are conditioned to regard these advancements as inherently advantageous and unfortunately that comes at a cost. Ignoring how technology has negatively affected our lives has resulted in the internet not necessarily being a safe space for us all.

The topic in discussion is cyber bullying — a very real risk that accompanies internet use. Yes, the internet is a fabulous invention, social media likewise. And you may want to dispel that there even is a phenomenon regarded as cyber bullying. To help contextualize this risk and move towards possible solutions, this article will take you through what cyber bullying is and why you should be concerned. While cyberbullying can come across as scary and dangerous, only we have the power to do something about it.

What is cyber bullying?

Bullying asserts that a person is being aggressive, manipulative and perhaps verbally abusive to another person. So much so that the affected person may live in constant fear of the bully. Cyber bullying refers to bullying specifically done on the internet, via our phones, computers and other internet enabled devices. Beyond the internet, the affected individual often will begin to have difficulties living their day to day lives.

There is common debate over whether the effects of cyber bullying are worse than the traditional bullying. Behavior around internet use points to the constant need to engage with content and communities. This points to the fact that cyber bullying may occur more often and in different formats. Cyber bullying doesn’t involve verbal assaults alone, but could take the form of embarrassing pictures, videos, group-taunting and shaming.

Why you should be concerned

While cyber bullying is a pervasive issue that can affect people of all ages, the main people at the receiving end of cyber bullying are young. At its core, that means your children are susceptible to cyber bullying. It is our duty as guardians or parents to watch over our kids and their interests.Over 16% of students when dealing with cyber bullying will fight back, over 15% of these students will avoid school, and over 5% of students who are victims of cyber bullying will physical fight a bully. Suicide caused by or related to the effects of cyber bullying are on the rise. With this information and recognition we should not react with fear but action.

What parents can do

• Keep the computer in an area of the home where its visible and you can monitor their online use
• Become familiar with social networks that your children use and ask them to show you their profiles
• Talk to your children about online issues and let them know they should come to you if anything seems inappropriate
• Build trust and set limitations for internet use and safety

What teachers can do

• Implement zero tolerance policies for bullying
• All school districts should have these policies and make them known to all schools, teachers, parents, and students
• Engage teachers, parents, and students in discussions on how to prevent bullying through PTA meetings, assemblies, and school events

What students can do

• Don’t respond to any cyberbullying text messages
• Don’t be an accomplice to cyberbullying
• If you’re a victim of cyberbullying tell somebody

Originally published at blog.trudyapp.com on December 28, 2017.