The Rise of the Cyberbully

The world of technology is fast-paced and more readily adopted by youth. This often leaves parents and guardians in a catch-up role trying to figure out what our children are doing and how we can teach safe behavior. With over 50% of youth saying they have been subjected to abuse through social and digital media according to a recent MTV - Associated Press survey, the problem requires attention.

Teens use of technology explodes

A 2010 survey by the Cyberbullying Research Center found teen's (10 - 18 year olds) use of electronic communications widespread:

	83% used cell phones
	40% took cell phone pictures
	77% sent text messages
	50% used FaceBook

Cyberbullying defined: "Cyberbullying is when someone repeatedly harasses, mistreats, or makes fun of another person online or while using cell phones or other electronic devices." Source: Cyberbullying Research Center

Types of Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying usually occurs from someone the person knows very well. It comes in many forms:

	Posting something online that is not true
	Saying something mean or hurtful about someone and sending it to the child's social circle
	Forwarding a "private" message to others with the intent to hurt both parties
	Breaking into a cell phone or social account to read private information or worse, using the account to send out inappropriate messages
	Defacing social media pages
	Excluding your child from a social network, effectively ostracizing them
	Sexting. These are sexual messages and photos that are sent, often with peer pressure attached. These images and messages are then used to blackmail and belittle an ex-girlfriend or boyfriend as they are made public or threats are made to distribute the embarrassing information.

What can you do?

	Look for signs. If you child's behavior starts changing it may be time to discuss the cyberbully possibility. Cyberbullying is occurring across broad social spectrums: good students and poor students; in urban and rural areas; across genders and across all races.
	Set up rules. Make sure you have full access to your child's cell phone and social media accounts. Let them know this is part of the agreement with you to have the technology. Monitor use and look for changes in tone and behavior.
	Report abuse. Coach your children to tell you when cyberbullying occurs. Take this private harassment and make it known to the school and the parents of the offending children. Often simply telling friends what is going on helps stop the problem.
	Make Changes. Password protect devices and change the passwords often. Close down offending social sites. Change email addresses and screen names. Do not allow access to these devices after bedtime hours to provide a respite from the harassment.
	Tell the person to stop. Amazingly this is often one of the most effective means to get the bully to stop their harrasment.

Thankfully many school and state programs are being established to help students be more aware of the problem and provide resources to stop any harassment. Should you wish to learn more:

MTV - AP Digital Abuse Study - www.athinline.org/about
Cyberbullying Research Center - www.cyberbullying.us