Cyber Bullying 

 Cyber Bullying is defined as being cruel to others by sending or posting harmful material or engaging in other forms of social aggression using the internet or other digital technologies. 

When will we ever see bullying come to an end?! Bullying is something I can remember that has always been in school. I feel like as I got older and entered junior high and high school it became even worse.  I can’t believe how bullying has increased! Technology is such a wonderful resources and it’s sad to see how people are using it as a weapon to hurt other people. Recently Dr. Smirnova asked us to take part in a Cyber Bullying webinar. This webinar was very informational, and provided some tools educators can use to prevent bullying. The speaker was excellent and really shared good advice on how educators can take a stance against bullying. 

Facts About Cyber Bullying: 

In the webinar the speaker provided us with the facts on ways Cyber Bullying is done, the effects it has on those individuals being bullied, and ways educators can take a stance and prevent it. The following are examples for each:

Ways Cyber Bullying is done:

• Text Messaging, websites, digital phone (cell phones), instant messaging, and emails.

The effects Cyber Bullying has on the Victims:

• Poor School Performance, Psychological Problems, Feelings of being at Fault, Constant Fear.

  Ways to Prevent It:

• Provide or organize lessons on Bullying
• Ensure an Anti-Bullying Policy in Schools
• Make sure all school staff is trained on how to recognize bullying and ways to prevent it (Workshop or Professional Development).
• Respond PROMPTLY to Bullying at ALL TIMES!

Cyber Bullying has really increased with all the advances of technology. Bullies more than ever are finding it easier to bully others. It is important for all schools to make their staff aware of the effects of bullying, and the downfalls it brings to the school. Most importantly educators need to be aware of the negativity it brings to those innocent students being attacked. If all educators take a stance against bullying and make sure to instill a NO TOLERANCE stance against bullying, I believe we will still a reduction in the amount of bulling that occurs in schools!