Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is any form of bullying that takes place through the use of digital technologies (UNICEF, 2022). This means that it can take place over a social media platform such as Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or it can be done using other types of communication such as texts or email. Any type of bullying is intolerable, but cyberbullying has become even more concerning due to the rise of the digital age and social media use. Some individuals may find it easier to bully others online because they are not face-to-face, and many times, cyberbullies have the option to remain anonymous. Hinduja and Patchin (2018) highlight the fact that although bullying is not a new phenomenon, technology has made it easier for bullies to expand their hurtful words to more victims. The negative effects caused by cyberbullying is tremendous because often times the hurtful words and actions are also seen by others, creating even more strain on the victim. Many victims report feeling depressed, ashamed, and even suicidal after dealing with a cyberbully (Hinduja & Patchin, 2018). Cyberbullying can affect a student's ability to perform in school, making it difficult for them to focus, participate, and interact with others. For this reason, it is crucial for educators to come up with ways to combat cyberbullying both inside and outside of the school. The main way that they can do this is by creating awareness of the cause and effects of cyberbullying, and how to be an advocate for others who may be experiencing it. 

(Source: What Is Cyberbullying? | Choices Psychotherapy)

DoSomething.org has created a list of 11 Facts About Cyberbullying. This list was created using statistics from several different sources. It is important because it allows educators and parents to see the trends associated with cyberbullying, which allows them to combat it more easily. For instance, one statistic states that "About half of LGBTQ+ students experience online harassment - a rate higher than average." (DoSomething.org, 2022). Another statistic states that Instagram is the most common social media platform where others have reported cyberbullying (DoSomething.org, 2022). With statistics such as these, educators are able to proactively think of ways in which they can protect certain populations within their school that have an increased risk of experiencing cyberbullying and create more awareness about the different platforms that may be easier for students to perform cyberbullying on. Everyone can do something to combat cyberbullying, whether it be lending a voice, bringing awareness, or being a listening ear, but the simplest way to combat cyberbullying is to not do it. 

Here are some other helpful links for students, teachers, parents, and other educators:

1. Cyberbullying Warning Signs

2. Mental Health Support Resources

3. 11 Facts About Cyberbullying

4. Free Cyberbullying Resources for Teachers

Works Cited:

DoSomething.org. (2022). 11 facts about cyberbullying. 11 Facts About Cyberbullying | DoSomething.org

Hinduja, S. & Pratchin, J. (2018). Cyberbullying: Identification, prevention, & response. Cyberbullying Identification Prevention Response_2018.pub

UNICEF. (2022). Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it. Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it | UNICEF