Saturday, November 3, 2012
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying has become another form of intimidation and harassment among students. The problem is that teachers, counselors, and parents typically do not witness it because it’s easier for students to conceal it from adults. Children, whom would have been too afraid to bully other students in the past, are now able to hide behind a computer screen and to harass someone else. This situation makes it very difficult for school counselors to catch the students in the act and to intervene among the students. By taking preventive measures, such as classroom lessons and having a strong line of communication with the students, school counselors can deter students from Cyberbullying one another. Having that rapport with the students can help them to feel more comfortable with discussing this issue with the school counselor.
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You are so right in noticing that cyberbullying is a way for bullies to hide behind a computer screen. I think this is why cyberbullying has become so widespread. Students who would normally be afraid of saying something to someone's face use the computer screen as a cover to attack and harass others. You also noted that it is easier to conceal from adults. That is so true. As counselors, we must continually emphasize to children that it is not okay to belittle and demean others.
ReplyDeleteThe comment you made about bullies being able to hide behind a computer screen gives a bully the illusion that they can't be "seen" but their IP address is in plain view for authorities to track them down. More and more law enforcement is finding people who harass others and the courts are stepping up to punish them for their actions. Kids need to be told they are not really invisible on the internet.
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