Internet Safety for Kids
Cyberbullying and Cyber-Harassment
Cyberbullying and Cyber-Harassment
CyberbullyingCyberbullying is bullying that occurs online, often through instant messaging, text messages, emails, or social networks. Cyberbullies may be the same age as the victims, or they may be older. If the perpetrator is an adult, it is generally called cyber-stalking or cyberharassment.
Cyberbullying can be just as hurtful as other types of bullying, and in some ways it can actually be worse. Cyberbullying is not limited to the playground; it can occur anytime the child is online, even if they're at home. Also, the bully can sometimes remain anonymous, which can make the bullying harder to stop.
Examples of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying can take many different forms. Below are some examples of things that can be considered cyberbullying:
- Writing hurtful things through instant messaging, text messaging, or online games.
- Posting derogatory messages on a social networking site.
- Posting or sharing embarrassing photos or videos.
- Creating a fake profile in order to humiliate someone.
Resources
The following resources have lots of great information about cyberbullying, including activities for kids and teens:
- BrainPOP: BrainPOP has videos and activities about cyberbullying and many other subjects.
- Stopcyberbullying.org: Created by the people at WiredSafety.org, this site has information geared towards different age ranges, from ages 7 to 17.
- Cyberbully411.org: This site has resources for kids and teens, including strategies for talking to parents about cyberbullying.
- Common Sense Media: Here you can find detailed advice for working with kids ages 2 to 17.
- KidsHealth: This is a good article that gives an overview of cyberbullying.
WiredSafety.org has general information about internet safety. To learn more about cyberbullying, watch the following video from WiredSafety.org.
