Cyber bullying is any form of bullying that occurs through technology, whether online or via mobile devices. It is increasingly common among elementary and middle school students. Cyber bullies can often remain anonymous, leaving victims feeling stressed without knowing the source of the harassment. Common forms of cyber bullying include harassment, impersonation, and trickery. Signs someone is being cyber bullied include sadness, lack of interest in activities, and avoiding school. While anyone can be targeted, those considered overweight, small, sensitive or learning disabled are often the focus. Statistics show 25% of girls and 11% of boys report being cyber bullied in the past two months. Schools can help by educating students and parents about cyber bullying and updating policies to
2. IntroductionCyber bullying is any form of bullying done with the use of technology whether it is the internet or cell phonesCyber bullies are often anonyms this could leave the victim feeling stressed because they do not know who is causing them this pain.
3. IntroductionCyber bullying has a trend of increasing in elementary aged students and peaking during middle school years.There are many forms of cyber bullyingChildren experiencing cyber bullying may also experience traditional bullying in school
4. Some Forms of Cyber BullyingHarassmentDenigrationFlamingImpersonationOuting or TrickeryCyber Stalking
5. Signs of Cyber Bullying SadLack of interest in social activitiesAvoids school
6. Gender Differences in Cyber Bullying Girls tend to make fun of others based on their physical appearanceBoys tend to make more sexually explicit comments
7. Who is Targeted Anyone can be a victim of cyber bullying however children who are considered over weight, small in size, overly sensitive, or learning disabled are often the focus of cyber bullies.
8. Statistics on Cyber Bullying 25% of girls reported being cyber bullied in the past two months.11% of boys reported being cyber bullied in the past two months.
9. Steps to Limit Cyber BullyingThe first step in trying to stop cyber bullying is to know how prevalent it is in your schoolEducate students on cyber bullyingUpdating policies that prohibit harassment through the use of technology
10. ContinuedEducate parents on cyber bullyingCreate a school atmosphere that allows students to feel comfortable reporting any cyber bullying
11. ConclusionCyber bullying is a growing problem in schools todayIt is up to teachers to know the signs of cyber bullying and ways to prevent it
12. References Whitaker, Jodi L., and Brad J. Bushman. "Online Dangers: Keeping Children and Adolescents Safe." Washington and Lee Law Review. 66.3 (Summer 2009): 1053-63.Beale, Andrew V., and Kimberly R. Hall. "Cyberbullying: What School Administrators (and Parents) Can Do." The Clearing House. 81.1 (September/October 2007): 8-12.http://www.olweus.org/public/cyber_bullying.page
Editor's Notes
Harassment- Insulting and rude messagesDenigration- Sending disturbing information that is derogatory and untrue this also includes sending digitally altered picturesFlaming- Fighting using angry languageImpersonation- using a person's online identity to send or post vicious or embarrassing material to othersOuting or Trickery- tricking someone into revealing secrets or embarrassing information and forwarding it to others Cyber Stalking- Repeatedly sending messages that include threats of harm or are highly intimidating
Some other signs of cyber bullying are a decline in academic performance, or a child appearing to be upset after using the computer or viewing a text message.
Some ways to find out the prevalence is through class meeting, surveys, and focus groups. Cyber bullying lessons should be integrated into the schools curriculum
The school should encourage parents to talk to their children about cyber bullying and its consequences