Cyberbullying: An Introduction

Cyberbullying Defined

Cyberbullying can best be defined as “willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices” (Hinduja & Patchin, 2015). It is important to understand that there is criteria to appropriately label something as cyberbullying. There must be some form of malicious intent behind the actions. Note the use of the word “actions”. To be considered cyberbullying, the mistreatment should be repetitive in nature. As with traditional bullying, there is typically an imbalance of power which could be in the form of proficiency or access to technology (Hinduja & Patchin, 2015). While adults certainly experiences cyberbullying behaviors, typically the terms bullying and cyberbullying are in reference to children and adolescents. However, I would like to point out that these adolescents grow into adults who then have to mentor their own children who are bullies, bullied, or bystanders

Examples of Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can take on many forms and it is imperative to understand each in order to quickly recognize and respond to these actions.

Rumor Spreading
Flaming- posting comments with the intent to incite an emotional response
Posting Pictures and Videos
Captions, Comments, Messages
Information Spreading
Impersonation
Tagging and Untagging
Cyberstalking
Physical Threats

Digital Platforms

While there are a large variety of digital platforms, the list below demonstrates a few to have a basic understanding of how students are accessing and utilizing. It is also important to understand that these apps come and go in popularity and new apps come out often. The only way to truly stay on top of all of the different ways that students are interacting is to develop and maintain expectations and an open line of communication.

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Snapchat
YouTube
Ask.fm
Yik Yak, Secret, Whisper
Kik, WhatsApp, Viver, Voxer
Online Gaming
Email

Education Implications

There is no shortage of statistics showing that cyberbullying is prevalent and devastating. There is no doubt that schools must get on board and begin to step in to help students through this process. However, prevention is so much more effective than reaction. In order to truly make a difference, students must be involved in the process. Chances are that students who are given the chance to speak freely with trusted adults will open up. The key as the adult in the issue is to not give up when they don’t just unload everything in the first meeting. In my opinion, this cannot be something that is fixed in one meeting with students. In order to truly promote awareness, the stigma must be removed and students AND teachers should feel comfortable having open and honest discussions. Students should not be sheltered from the consequences of cyberbullying. I know that often adults fear that by telling students about stories of other kids committing suicide, they will be putting the idea in their heads. Unfortunately, a lack of discussion often leaves those students feeling more isolated that ever. Students should have a variety of ways to express their ideas. Anonymous forms should be used as well as cultivating solid relationships where students feel that they will be heard and helped. Lastly, consistency must be used. This can’t be a one and done campaign.