What are bullying and cyber bullying? How can they be prevented?

What is bullying?

Bullying is an unnecessary, aggressive behavior among school going kids that entails a real or supposed power imbalance. The behavior is repetitive or has the prospect to be repetitive, over time. Bullying consists of actions, like spreading rumors, making threats, harassing somebody verbally or physically, and eliminating somebody from a group purposely.

What is cyber bullying?

Cyber bullying is bullying that happens using electronic technology, which includes equipment and devices, such as computers, cell phones, and tablets, including communication tools as well as text messages, social media sites, chat, etc..

Consequences of cyber bullying

Computers and mobile phones themselves are not responsible for cyber bullying. Social media websites can be used for helpful activities, such as connecting children with family and friends, assisting students with school, and for amusement. However, these tools can be used to harm other people, as well. Whether done personally or through technology, the consequences of bullying are the same.

Children who are cyber bullied are likely to:

v Use drugs and alcohol.

v Experience bullying in person.

v Skip their classes.

v Be reluctant to attend their classes.

v Have lower self-confidence.

v Get poor grades.

v Have more health issues.

Cyber bullying is entirely different, why?

Children who are being cyber bullied are frequently bullied personally. Furthermore, those who are cyber bullied have a tough time in escaping from the behavior. Cyber bullying can take place throughout the day, and it reaches a child, even when he or she is unaccompanied. It can take place at any time, day or night.

Cyber bullying images and messages can be posted namelessly and distributed rapidly to an incredibly extensive audience. It can be tricky and occasionally, unfeasible to trace the resource. Deleting unsuitable or harassing texts, messages, and pictures is very difficult after they have been sent or posted.

Parents and children can prevent cyber bullying jointly by exploring safe ways to use technology. Parents can achieve this by knowing what their children are doing online, establishing rules regarding the technology use, and understanding the school rules by the kids. To know more about the ways to prevent bullying and cyber bullying, click here.