Cyber bullying is when someone uses the internet to be mean to another person. It can be a serious problem and can have long-term effects on victims.
Kids are more connected than ever and they spend a lot of time online. It is important to understand how easy it is to be a bully online, and what you can do about it.
1. There is no need to be dominant or popular
There is no need to be dominant or popular when it comes to cyber bullying. In fact, the only thing that is required is an internet connection.
It is also important to note that cyberbullying is not the same as traditional bullying. While both bullying behaviors are rooted in anger, the act of cyberbullying is more about power and control.
This is the reason why cyber bullies are more likely to engage in aggressive behavior. They may try to gain dominance over their victims by making them feel inferior and unworthy.
Victims of cyber bullying might experience a range of psychological problems, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. They can become lonely and isolated from their friends and family, and feel judged negatively by others.
In addition, victims of cyber bullying might lose interest in school and have to miss classes to avoid being bullied. They may even turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with the situation.
2. It is easy to do
Bullying is not new, but it has changed in ways that make it more prevalent and damaging than ever. It happens over the Internet and through cell phones, computers, and social media.
Cyber bullying is one of the biggest threats to people’s mental health and well-being in our society today. It’s a serious issue that affects all of us, especially teens and young adults.
There are many reasons why someone might want to be a bully, including power and envy.
The most common reason people cyberbully is to hurt or intimidate others. They may do this through text messages, emails, photos or social media posts.
If you’re concerned about your own safety, it’s a good idea to limit screen time and avoid platforms where bullying is occurring. Also, be sure to document any instances of cyberbullying. This will help establish a history and give you something to work with in an emergency. You can do this by logging every time the bully posts or messages, as well as screenshots of each exchange.
3. It is easy to hide
Cyber bullying has become an epidemic, in large part due to the fact that it is easy and quick to hide your identity online. The internet has made it possible for cyber bullies to do things like set up fake social media accounts, catfish their victims into online relationships and spoof their messages so they can send hurtful text or email messages without fear of reprisal.
The Internet also makes it easy to hide compromising photos and content, particularly when the compromising material is sexually explicit or titillating in nature. This is a major problem, especially for teenagers who have yet to learn the art of keeping their private lives confidential. The best way to protect yourself is to use password-protected devices and change your passwords frequently. It is also a good idea to save screenshots of mean messages and emails you receive in order to prove your case, if needed. The CDC recommends using the latest security technologies to keep yourself safe online and offline.
4. It is easy to get help
If you suspect cyber bullying is happening, the first step is to tell someone – a parent, teacher, friend or counselor. This person can help you get the information you need and find a solution that works for your child.
You can also report it to the police if you feel that your safety is in danger or if you know the bully is using threats. The police can then investigate and help you with your immediate situation.
It is important to be careful not to respond or retaliate when you are being bullied, as this can make the situation worse. This can be especially true if the bully is using threats and intimidation.
