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Cyberbullying and Dangers of the Internet

Cyberbullying is the use of email, cell phones, instant messaging and social media sites to support deliberately hostile behavior with the intention of harming others.  Email, cell phone cameras and popular social websites like Facebook, MySpace and YouTube have become tools for Cyberbullies, and the consequences can be devastating.

LIPEN’s Cyberbullying Program is designed to help schools become proactive in dealing with the modern concept of bullying, whether on school grounds or in Cyberspace.

• Extensive research clearly demonstrates that cyberbullying begins very early on.
• LIPEN’s cyberbullying program begins in second grade.
• It is our philosophy to open a dialogue with children as soon as they have access to a computer.
• Sexting and webcams are discussed, (when age appropriate).
• Parents and children learn that the Internet, with its virtual anonymity, poses many dangers from cyberbullying to pedophiles.

Pedophiles frequent a variety of sites in search of the next victim – it is easy for them to find and even kidnap children they meet online.

• Thirteen million American children between the ages of 6 and 17 have been cyberbullied. (Source: Fight Crime Invest in Kids)
• More than one in ten tenth graders in New York State will attempt suicide this year. (Source: New York State Office of Mental Health)
• Boys are as likely as girls to be targeted on the Internet by threats or efforts to humiliate them.
• There are thousands of sites instructing pedophiles on how to find children.
• LIPEN’s program on Cyberbullying and Internet Dangers is designed for everyone from school administrators, teachers,  parents and students

Electronic bullying is not under strict government regulation and is currently being discussed by legislators around the country.  Children and adults need to become aware of the consequences of cyberbullying.   Educating them is the first step.