The Buzz on Cyberbullying
YOU can help!
So wait, what exactly is CYBERBULLYING?
Cyberbullying is bullying (which can be threats, humiliation, harassment, or any other kind of behavior targeted to harm someone) that takes place via technology. It is both easy to become a bully and a victim on the web because of the anonymous nature of the internet. Even though some people don't realize it, cyberbullying is just as harmful as any other type of bullying.
Things to Know:
- 43% of teens have been cyberbullied, and 1 in 4 of them have had it happen more than once
- 75% of teens admit visiting a website that bashes another teen
- 90% of teens who have seen bullying on social media have ignored it
- Victims of bullying are 2 to 9 times more likely to commit suicide
What can I do to Help?
You can help victims of cyberbullying first and foremost by standing up and speaking out. If you see any form of bullying happening, online or in person, say something. If you can't intervene in the situation or feel scared, tell an adult. Then, do what you can to rebuild the victim. Fill their news feed with positivity and support. If you can make a difference in just one victim's life, you have helped to tackle the problem.
Images:
Girl Being Cyberbullied. 5 March 2013. Techlicious. Grandparents.com. Web. 21 September 2014.
Hot Pink Apple Laptop. 29 March 2014. WpWallpaper. Inwallspeakers1.com. Web. 21 September 2014.
Rear View of Five Friends with their Arms Around Each Other. N.d. Glow Images. visualphotos.com. Web. 21 September 2014.
Untitled. N.d. In Case I’m Gone. feminspire.com. Web. 21 September 2014.