• cyberbullying

    CYBERBULLYING

  • Overview

    Definition 

    Cyberbullying is defined as using the internet, including cell phones and social media, to deliberately and repeatedly intimidate, threaten, embarrass, harass or hurt another person. Examples include sending hurtful texts, posting embarrassing photos and spreading false rumors.

    Why It’s Important

    Bullying in all forms is a concern for children and teens. Cyberbullying creates unique challenges because technology can foster bullying that is more public and continuous, making it more difficult for the target to find an escape. Posted material can also be more challenging to remove which causes ongoing torment and negatively impacts the target’s reputation. Because the bullying is online, it can also be more difficult for adults to notice and thus intervene.

    Connections

    School 

    To help prevent, protect, educate and empower all learners against cyberbullying, ISD 728 implements a Digital Citizenship curriculum at all grade levels using age appropriate information and resources, including lessons and materials from Common Sense Media. 

    Home

    It is important that families take an active role in educating and protecting their child(ren). Some suggestions for preventing and mitigating the the impact of cyberbullying include the following:

    • Educate: Set expectations and teach your child how to be responsible digital citizens, including how to appropriately use digital tools, how to secure their privacy settings, and how to recognize the dangers of anonymity. Stay engaged in your child’s digital world and be aware of their online activity as well as offline behaviors that might indicate they are experiencing or perpetuating cyberbullying.

    • Empower: Discuss with your child how to recognize and respond appropriately to bullying behaviors such as ignoring, blocking, unfollowing and reporting to an adult. Also maintain open and ongoing communication with your child about cyberbullying and digital drama. Be patient and supportive of your child as they learn to develop and navigate online relationships.

    • Inspire: Model positive online presence and encourage your child to be kind when they are both online and offline. Discuss the importance of standing up for themselves and their peers as well as the importance of reporting any cyberbullying they experience or observe to an adult.

    • To learn more about these suggestions, see FAQ below.

    FAQ

    Resources