According to dictionary.com the definition of cyber bullying is the act of harassing someone online or posting mean messages; usually anonymous. Even though the definition says "usually anonymous" that is not always the case. There are many times where people are cyber bullied by people they know. The problem with cyber bullying is that bullying can happen 24/7. There are many people, including students, who are bullied in person everyday. Cyber bullying allows the bully to keep being a bully even when they are not with the person they are bullying. Since people are so connected to technology these days, cyber bullying is difficult to avoid.
Many people say "just turn you computer off". The problem is that we are so connected to technology. Many people use their phones, computers, and tablets every day and they are essential to have a successful day. According to nobullying.com about 25% of teenagers reported repeated cyber bullying on their phones or the internet. Also 52% of young people report being cyber bullied.
K-12 students are often those who are cyber bullied. Teachers need to be able to combat cyber bullying and find ways to solve the problem. This Media Smarts has a lot of useful resources for teachers who need to deal with cyber bullying. There are lessons about the problems and the laws of cyber bullying. This could help teachers stop and prevent more cyber bullying
Marty
ReplyDeleteI find your perspective of tying cyberbullying to physical actions are words an interesting parallel that I did not consider. I think you're 100% right about the huge damages bullying has for anyone affected.
I totally agree that cyber-bullying is something that is very hard to avoid. We are so connected to our technology that it is hard to get away from someone who may harass us online. It also may be hard for students to report cyber-bullying to a teacher/adult because it is easily deleted by the bully and no evidence is left. We are always told that whatever we put on the internet is never deleted, but it can be easy to hide and cover up.
ReplyDeleteCyber bullying is definitely something that should not be taken lightly, and though it may start out as a harmless joke, it can turn into a very serious matter in a short time. This can be just as damaging to an individual as any other type of bullying. It can be so difficult for victims to avoid this too as there are so many ways in which you can be harassed through technology.
ReplyDeleteI think it's crazy how connected through multiple means of technology everyone is. I believe people think they're invincible and won't be found out through technology. However what people don't realize is, once it's out there it always will be. Have you ever known instances of friends being cyber bullying or been cyber bullied yourself?
ReplyDeleteThose are good resources that you included. Good post!
ReplyDelete