Anti-Cyberbullying Strategies

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that takes place online or through digital communication technologies. It involves using electronic devices, such as computers, smartphones, or tablets to send hurtful, threatening, or demeaning messages or content to another person. A 2023 survey done by Cyberbullying Research Center showed 26.5% of 13- to 17-year old students said they experienced cyberbullying. Below are some of the terms used to describe the various forms of cyberbullying:

• Harassment: Repeated, hostile, and unwanted communication, often with the intent to cause emotional distress or harm.
• Flaming: Sending offensive, often explicit, messages or comments with the purpose of inciting anger or starting a fight.
• Exclusion: Deliberately excluding someone from online groups, activities, or conversations, which can be socially isolating.
• Impersonation: Pretending to be someone else online to damage their reputation, spread false information, or engage in harmful behavior.
• Outing: Sharing personal, private, or embarrassing information about someone online without their consent.
• Doxing: Publishing a person's private information, such as their address or phone number online with malicious intent.
• Trolling: Posting inflammatory or provocative messages with the intention of upsetting or provoking others.
• Cyberstalking: Repeated and intrusive online behavior, often accompanied by threats, that causes fear for one's safety.

Cyberbullying can have serious consequences for victims, including emotional distress, social isolation, academic problems, and, in severe cases, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and even self-harm. It is a prevalent issue, especially among adolescents and teenagers, who are heavy users of social media and other online platforms.