With all of the technology out there today, it means that bullying isn’t limited to schoolyards or street corners. Cyber bullying is becoming a daily occurence for many teens and it is creating a big problem amongst America’s youth. Most teenagers don’t think about being a victim of bullying or becoming a bully themselves. But with the constant availability of mobile devices and computers, kids react quickly more than ever before, to a situation, often without thinking of the consequences.
This can occur anywhere, at home, at school, during lunch, on the bus home from school. It’s simple to start a text conversation that can quickly turn into a war. Or its easy to post hurtful comments on facebook and even add inappropriate pictures. And potentially hundreds and even thousands of people can become involved in an attack via technology.
The effects of cyber bullying can be devastating, leaving you feeling hurt, embarrassed, angry, depressed, and sometimes even suicidal. No type of bullying should be tolerated and it is important for parents to get involved with all of their kids technology. Be aware and watch out. Make sure you discuss with your children, regardless of their age, seven years old or 17 years old, there is no age limit to bullying.
Below are some good tips that can help you protect yourself or your children from cyber bullying online and offline.
1. Save the evidence of the cyber bullying
2. Discuss cyber bullying with your kids
3. Bring any bullying situations up to school officials immediately, do not wait
4. Monitor your kids technology use, you are the parent
5. Be positive and encouraging
6. Work with your kids on dealing with stress
Legal Ramifications of Cyber bullying
There are certain types of cyber bullying that violate school codes or breach
anti-discrimination and sexual harassment laws.
In the U.S., cyber bullying can turn into a misdemeanor cyber-harassment charge or result in a charge of juvenile delinquency. It typically can result in a child losing their ISP or IM accounts as a “terms of service” violation.
In some cases, if hacking or password and identity theft is involved, it can be considered a serious criminal matter under state and federal law.
In many states “sexting” or forwarding a “sext” (sexual messages) is punishable as distributing or possessing child pornography, and requires even minors to be registered as sex offenders.
Let’s all help stop cyber bullying now. Brought to you by the caring attorneys at Fellows Hymowitz Rice, PC, Injury lawyers that you can depend on.