Cyberbullying

What Is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying, using new communication technology (cellular phones, internet, and other forms of electronic media) to torment others, is taking humiliation to a frightening level. Hiding behind the anonymity of the Internet, cyberbullies are able to hurl threats, spread rumors, trash reputations, and damage fragile egos, usually without being caught. The incredible scope of the Internet means that a cyberbully can reach millions with the click of a mouse.^[1]

• GetNetWise is a public service brought to you by a wide range of Internet industry corporations and public interest organizations. The GetNetWise coalition wants Internet users to be only "one click away" from the resources they need to make informed decisions about their and their family's use of the Internet. The Kids Internet Safety Guide is broken down by age groups to provide you age-appropriate information.

• i-SAFE is a non-profit foundation whose mission is to educate and empower youth to make their Internet experiences safe and responsible. i-Safe is supported by a grant from the Office of Juvenice Justice and Delinquency Prevention,  Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice.

• Netsmartz is an internet safety site sponsored by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. The site includes resources for teachers, parents and students on a variety of topics including Cyberbullying.

• NetSmartzWorkshop:  Keeping Kids and Teens Safer on the Internet

• Resources on Cyberbullying Prevention: From "Stop Bullying Now," Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

• Web Wise Kids are a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring child internet safety by giving tips and advice to parents and children on how to protect themselves from online predators.  Designed specifically to address the safety issues associated with the interactive nature of the internet as kids enter the realm of chat and interactive gaming, there are also CD resources available for schools to address safety issues.

¹ The Newest Breed of Bully, the Cyberbully, By Charlene C. Giannetti and Margaret Sagarese,  PTA