Cyberbullying

Cyber-bullying can be as debilitating as other forms of bullying. It is important to understand what it is in order to deal with it.

Here is a link to an article I wrote for pink shirt day

Cyber-Bullying: What is it?

• The definition according to the merriam-webster dictionary: “[…] the electronic posting of mean-spirited messages about a person (such as a student) often done anonymously”

• Exclusion, spreading rumours, inappropriate comments or pictures, harassment, posting on SM without permission

• Up to 30% of students may be cyber-bullied

• Victims can skip school, activities, and social events,

• Often there is academic decline

• Low self-esteem, sadness

• Suicidal thoughts or self harm may result

What can you do?

• Don’t respond or retaliate

• Save the evidence, block the bully

• Encourage reporting

  • School boards have anti-bullying policies

• Password protect

• Listen, don’t be rash

Sexting

• Definition: Sending/ receiving/ forwarding sexually explicit images or messages

• Sexual behaviour during adolescence isn’t new

  • Social Media adds another avenue of expression

• Leaking images and sexts may lead to humiliation and bullying

  • Always think before posting, no pictures are truely private

• Consequences include: poor self-esteem, loneliness, social isolation, depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts

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