Knowing the dangers and what to do about it
October 27, 2016. . . Electronic devices have changed so many aspects of everyday life. People are able to connect and communicate on an unprecedented scale, for good and sometimes, not so well. This access can give rise to negatives, as evidenced in the rise of cyber bullying in recent years.
Cyber bullying is any kind of bullying, verbal or written, that takes place over an electronic platform. This can include any devices like cell phones, computers, or tablets, and it can take place in a variety of online places, such as social media sites, texts, video messages, chat messages, and any other apps or websites that enable communication.
This type of bullying can include mean messages, electronically propagated rumors, humiliating picture or videos, and even fake profiles meant to cruelly impersonate a particular person.
While many people might not think it would affect them or their children, cyber bullying is fairly common. According to a statistic quoted by Psychology Today, up to 50% of school-aged children have experienced some form of cyber bullying. The publication goes on to say, this type of bullying can have far-reaching effects, and in some, cases can lead to long-term emotional damage.
One of the most dangerous aspects about cyber bullying is it can be done anonymously, which increases the chances of cyber bullying. Communicating via an electronic platform creates physical and emotional distance between a bully and a victim.
Psychologist John Suler has termed this the “online disinhibition effect,” meaning when people are faced with the anonymity of the internet, they are much more likely to disregard traditional behavior constraints felt while interacting with a person face-to-face. The lines between reality and the digital world can become blurred so cruel actions feel less real and consequences seem far away.
How do you stop it? Prevention is key. It is important to set clear boundaries with your children, but also let them know you are their ally and you care about what they are doing online. Open up a productive dialogue and set preventative rules. Some additional tips include:
- Be familiar with your children’s Internet activities. Know whom they are interacting with and how they spend their time online.
- “Friend” or “follow” your kids on social media sites to keep you both on the same page.
- Encourage open communication, ask your children to alert you immediately if they, or someone they know is being cyber bullied.
- Teach your children to empathize with others. Help them to understand hurtful words can be dangerous and what they say or do on the Internet can never be erased.
