What is cyber bullying?

EdNews Parent Backgrounder

Cyber bullying is the use of technology such as the internet or a cell phone, by a minor, to abuse, harass, threaten, or negatively target another minor.  Cyber bullying can be traumatizing for children and teens and has led to teen suicide in the past. One of the reasons cyber bullying is so harmful is that it can take place 24/7, not only when a child is at school, so they cannot escape it.  Also, cyber bullying can easily be anonymous which makes it more difficult to identify the source.

Some examples of cyber bullying include sending or forwarding mean text messages, posting pictures of peers without consent, or tricking others into sharing personal information.  Cyber bullying can be prevented by teaching students at an early age to never share personal information online or through text and never to open a message from someone they do not know. Parents should also encourage their children to openly communicate about what they are doing online and who they are talking to so that if a situation seems questionable the proper authorities can be contacted.

Get more information from the National Crime Prevention Council here.

– Laura Hampton

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