What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is the use of electronic devices and media to repeatedly harass, threaten, humiliate and otherwise hassle people.  

“Whether it’s creating a fake social media page (i.e., Twitter or Facebook) to impersonate a fellow student, repeatedly sending hurtful text messages and images, or posting cruel comments on the Internet, cyberbullying can have a devastating effect. Nasty comments, lies, embarrassing photos and videos, and snide polls can be spread widely through instant messaging (IM) or phone texting, and by posts on social networking sites. It can happen anytime — at school or home — and can involve large groups of children. The combination of the boldness created by being anonymous and the desire to be seen as “cool” can cause a child who normally wouldn’t say anything mean face-to-face to show off for other children.” -Common Sense Media

5 Ways to Stop Cyberbullying

Comprehensive Parent Guide

• Common Sense Media’s  – Comprehensive parent guide includes everything parents need to know about cyberbullying, organized by age and stage.

Family Tip Sheets

• Common Sense on Cyberbullying (Secondary)

• What would you do if your kid was cyberbullied?

• What is Digital Harassment?

Cyberbullying Resource Links

• NetSmartz – Cyberbullying: Keeping Kids and Teens safer on the Internet

• NetSmartz Teens: Watch teens share their own “Real-Life Stories” about issues affecting them on the Internet such as cyberbullying, online enticement, and giving out too much personal information.

Leading Research Institutes

• The Cyberbullying Research Center is dedicated to providing up-to-date information about the nature, extent, causes, and consequences of cyberbullying among adolescents.

• PEW Internet and American Life Project – Teens, kindness, and cruelty on social network sites.