Bullying has been a serious problem that has confronted children for decades. But bullying no longer just takes place on the school playground or during the walk back home. Bullying can occur in many different forms.
While the Internet and mobile devices provide easily accessible alternatives of communicating and connecting with others, digital media also provides another method of intentionally harming others, cyberbullying.
What is Cyberbullying?
Bullying can occur 24 hours a day, anywhere in the world. Videos, emails, texts intended to hurt, embarrass, threaten, harass or humiliate its target, are broadcast to countless others, in an instant. Cyberbullying, also known as digital abuse or electronic bullying, is a worldwide problem that affects children regardless of race, gender or age. Cyberbullying has no boundaries. There is no respite for those targeted by electronic bullies who are often anonymous.
Lawmakers and school districts in many locations around the world, are taking a proactive approach to this rapidly growing issue. Cyberbullying is now a crime in some locations.
The Serious Consequences of Bullying
Bullying, whether done online or off, is not just “kids being kids.” The damage inflicted by bullies is serious and can be deadly. Sadly, several young people have recently taken their own lives due to repeated bullying.
A 16-year-old Canadian was allegedly drugged and violently gang-raped by a group of adult and juvenile males last month in Vancouver. Partygoers actually took photographs of the crime in progress, which were later posted on Facebook and quickly went viral. Because the victim was drugged, she did not remember the incident.
She contacted police when she found the disturbing photos on the social media site. Not only was she repeatedly raped and physically injured in the attack, she continues to be victimized each time the photos are viewed and distributed. Police warn those who possess or distribute the images, which are considered child pornography, could face charges.
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. In order to promote awareness, several television networks are getting involved.
MTV’s A Thin Line Campaign
In an effort to empower users to identify and stop the spread of digital abuse and discourage teenagers from committing suicide, MTV launched its A Thin Line Campaign. Because there is a “thin line” between what is considered a harmless prank and something that is harmful or detrimental to a person’s life, MTV is offering numerous tools and resources on cyberbullying, texting and digital dating abuse. Users are encouraged to help in the development of the first “digital bill of rights.”
Teens are also invited to share and rate personal bullying stories. Compelling videos and a quiz are also included on the website. MTV's $10,000 Redraw the Line Challenge, which includes a chance to work directly with MTV, is also part of the initiative.
The Over the Line app, available at the App Store, helps victims identify whether or not a line has been crossed. Once a story has been shared, users decide whether or not the line has been crossed by clicking on the “Over,” “On” or “Under” options. If it is determined the line has indeed been crossed, options for taking control of an inappropriate situation as well as expert referrals are available. The free app is compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.
Cartoon Network’s Stop Bullying: Speak Up Initiative
In an effort to educate bullying bystanders, the Cartoon Network has launched its Stop Bullying: Speak Up campaign which includes on-air Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and helpful information on its website. It is estimated that 75 to 85 percent of students in schools are witnesses to bullying, contributing to the problem. Videos, information, tip sheets and free wallpapers are also available on the Cartoon Network’s site.
Bullying, whether accomplished via traditional or electronic mediums, can have serious and long-lasting consequences. Learn the warning signs and how you can help stomp out bullying.
Jace Shoemaker-Galloway - +JaceShoemaker-Galloway is more than passionate about online safety awareness. She has devoted and dedicated over five years to Internet ...
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