Technology has given bullies a whole new realm far beyond the reach of the school playground. Cellphones and social networking have created cyberbullying. In the context of National Bully Prevention Month, let’s take a closer look at cyberbullying and how to avoid it.

 

Today bullying in cyberspace is a serious issue that didn’t even exist when most parents were kids. It’s dangerous, and it’s prolific. As many as 90 percent of middle-schoolers say they’ve been victims of cyberbullying.

 

What is cyberbullying exactly? It’s defined as using technology to harass, hurt, embarrass, humiliate, or intimidate another person. It includes things like posting embarrassing pictures, sharing messages that were intended to be private, and sending threats or other hateful messages or comments. Because these things can reach a wide audience quickly, cyberbullying can be devastating to its victims.

 

So what can you do as a parent?

 

First, be open about cyberbullying and initiate conversations with your children about it. Many children are afraid to admit to being bullied, and some also fear loss of their technology privileges as a result.

 

Second, set cyber safety ground rules for your kids, like: #1 Don’t do or say anything online you wouldn’t do or say in person. #2 Don’t reveal anything online you wouldn’t tell a stranger. #3 Don’t share too many personal details, like an online diary that can be used to bully you. #4 Don’t tell anyone what your passwords are.

 

Finally, keep an eye on what your kids are doing online. Keep the computer in a public place where it can be supervised. And know how to access your kids’ social networking sites to monitor communications—both what they’re saying, and what others are saying to them. In this case, safety is more important than privacy.