Cyberbullying is just what it sounds like – bullying through the internet; social networking sites, instant messaging, cell phones and more. What seems like an innocent posting of a message today may turn into a life altering event tomorrow. A post made in Wisconsin can be viewed within minutes anywhere in the world. Cyberbullying victims may be targeted anywhere, at anytime.
Examples of Cyberbullying: [1]
• Flaming and Trolling – sending or posting hostile messages intended to "inflame" the emotions of other
• Happy-Slapping – recording someone being harassed or bullied in a way that usually involves physical abuse, then posting the video online for public viewing
• Identity Theft/Impersonation – stealing someone's password and/or hijacking their online accounts to send or post incriminating or humiliating pictures, videos, or information.
• Photoshopping – doctoring digital images so that the main subject is placed in a compromising or embarrassing situation
• Physical Threats – sending messages that involve threats to a person's physical safety
• Rumor Spreading – spreading gossip through email, text messaging, or social networking sites
Signs your child may be a victim of Cyberbullying:
• Avoids the computer, cell phone, and other technological devices or appears stressed when receiving an e-mail, instant message or text
• Withdrawals from family and friends or acts reluctant to attend school and social events
• Avoids conversations about computer use
• Exhibits signs of low self-esteem including depression and/or fear
• Has declining grades
• Has poor eating or sleeping habits
Helpful Resources:
• www.cyberbullying.us
The Cyberbullying Research Center is dedicated to providing up-to-date information about the nature, extent, causes, and consequences of cyberbullying among adolescents.
• www.stopbullying.gov
Stopbullying.gov is the official U.S. Government Web site managed by the Department of Health & Human Services in partnership with the Department of Education & the Department of Justice.
• www.netsmartz.org
Educational web site for children (age 5-17), parents/guardians, educators and law enforcement, of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) that provides age appropriate resources to help teach children how to be safer on and offline.
24 Hour Hotline: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
[1] Hinduja, S., Patchin J. Bullying Beyond the Schoolyard: Preventing and Responding to Cyberbullying. Thousand Oaks: Corwin Press, 2009.