Cyberbullying (WRITTEN)

Allira Cornell
Oct 23, 2019
2 min read

Updated: Nov 7, 2019

Cyberbullying is any aggressive, intentional act - including threats, abuse, name-calling, demeaning, denigration, harassment, exclusion, flaming, masquerading - dished out through any digital channel. From straight texting, unsolicited sexting, trolling on social media, sharing photos without permission, using Snapchats to taunt without lasting evidence - though IP addresses can be traced - to “griefing” in virtual worlds and games, cyberbullying is an increasing problem worldwide. Effortless sharing of digital information means one culprit’s act may be multiplied by others, amplifying effects. Unlike traditional bullying, the abuse of power doesn’t rely on physical strength, but rather digital fluency; anonymity in the digital realm emboldens the offender, whilst simultaneously intensifying stress in the victim, trying to figure out who it could be.

Teenage suicide and self-harm are also escalating; managing cyberbullying cases must be done delicately. Many victims will not report abuse, with witnesses unsure of how to help, unaware that they become complicit through inaction. Bullying doesn't happen face to face, creating a safety wall. Perpetrators are unable to fully grasp their impact, not directly witnessing the reaction of the victim. Reformed bullies have noted that they would never have said or done the things they did if it had happened IRL (in real life). Reasons people bully include instability at home or in other areas of their life and being a victim of bullying (either IRL or in cyberspace) themselves. Through empathy and standing up against bully behaviour, we may start to treat the causes, not just the symptoms. Teachers must develop both their students’ and their own digital fluency as part of pedagogy, ensuring reduction in possible power play committed by cyberbullies. Keeping a wary eye on conduct can help make schools safer, with Western Australia going so far as to ban mobile device use at school.

https://www.skynews.com.au/details/_6099163630001