CYBERBULLYING
Cyberbullying is the use of technology to intentionally harass, hurt, embarrass, humiliate or intimidate another person. It includes sending, posting, or sharing negative content about someone else.
HOW TO DEAL WITH CYBERBULLYING
1. Document the Situation
Save URLs, print emails or webpages,
screenshot posts and save texts containing bullying.
2. Work with Your School
Most schools include cyberbullying in their bullying prevention policies. Set up a meeting with a teacher, principal or guidance counselor to outline a plan to address the situation.
3. Work with Technology Providers
If the cyberbullying is occurring on social media, check the site’s safety page, report the harmful content to the site, document with screenshots, photo downloads, etc. and block the person who is bullying you.
TIPS FOR PREVENTING CYBERBULLYING
- Understand the potential for bullying when using technology
- Establish online guidelines with your parents or guardians
- Don’t talk to people online that you don’t know
- Keep your social media accounts private
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE?
- Persistent
- Hard to Detect
- Often Anonymous
- Larger Audience
- Easier to be Hurtful
- Permanent!
If you witness cyberbullying, don’t ignore, participate or retaliate. Reach out to the person being bullied to provide positive support and encouragement, then collect and report the harmful content.