Cyber Bullying : Be careful... Once its said, the web is fed...!!

Hello Friends, 

Today I bring a very serious topic of Cyber-bullying which is major concern in the society and corporate as well. 

What is bullying ?

Bullying means any unwanted, aggressive behaviour among school/college aged children or teen that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behaviour is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have serious, lasting problems. 

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is bullying  using electronic technology. Electronic technology includes devices and equipment such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chat, and websites.

Examples of cyberbullying :

• to send mean(vulgar) text messages or emails

• to spread rumours by email or posted on social networking sites, 

• sending embarrassing pictures, videos, websites

• to make fake profiles.

Why Cyberbullying is Different? 

Cell phones and computers themselves are not to blame for cyberbullying. Social media sites can be used for positive activities, like connecting kids with friends and family, helping students with school, and for entertainment. But these tools can also be used to hurt other people. Whether done in person or through technology, the effects of bullying are similar.

Effects of Cyberbullying

• Use alcohol and drugs

• Skip school

• Experience in-person bullying

• Be unwilling to attend school

• Receive poor grades

• Have lower self-esteem

• Have more health problems

How to Prevent from Cyberbullying? 

• Be Aware of What Your Kids are Doing Online

• Talk with your kids about cyberbullying and other online issues regularly. Know the sites your kids visit and their online activities. Ask where they’re going, what they’re doing, and who they’re doing it with.

• Tell your kids that as a responsible parent you may review their online communications if you think there is reason for concern. Installing parental control filtering software or monitoring programs are one option for monitoring your child’s online behavior, but do not rely solely on these tools.

• Have a sense of what they do online and in texts. Learn about the sites they like. Try out the devices they use.

• Ask for their passwords, but tell them you’ll only use them in case of emergency.

• Ask to “friend” or “follow” your kids on social media sites or ask another trusted adult to do so.

• Encourage your kids to tell you immediately if they, or someone they know, is being cyberbullied. Explain that you will not take away their computers or cell phones if they confide in you about a problem they are having.

• Establish rules about appropriate use of computers, cell phones, and other technology. For example, be clear about what sites they can visit and what they are permitted to do when they’re online. Show them how to be safe online.

• Encourage kids to think about who they want to see the information and pictures they post online. Should complete strangers see it? Real friends only? Friends of friends? Think about how people who aren’t friends could use it.

• Tell kids to keep their passwords safe and not share them with friends. Sharing passwords can compromise their control over their online identities and activities.