The Prevalence and Seriousness of Cyberbullying

One persistent myth in today’s society is that cyberbullying is less severe and carries fewer implications than traditional physical bullying. While many people argue that traditional bullying has a greater impact on a person's well-being because it occurs face-to-face, this belief may not hold true. In fact, cyberbullying can be equally damaging, if not more so, due to its unique characteristics and pervasive nature.

Understanding Bullying

Bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance.

This behavior is often repeated or has the potential to be repeated over time. Traditional bullying encompasses verbal, social, and physical forms. Verbal bullying includes name-calling, teasing, and taunting, as well as threats of harm. Social bullying involves spreading rumors, embarrassing someone, and excluding them on purpose. Physical bullying includes hitting, punching, kicking, pushing, spitting, and making obscene gestures. According to the School Crime Supplement, about 21% of students aged 12 to 18 experience some form of bullying (What is Bullying, 2018). Furthermore, the 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System states that 19% of students aged 9 to 12 have been bullied at school in the past year (Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, 2018).

Cyberbullying, on the other hand, occurs through digital devices such as computers or cell phones. It involves sharing negative, hurtful, and mean content intended to harm a person’s well-being. This often takes place on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and Ask.fm, as well as through text messaging, instant messaging, or emails. Cyberbullying is persistent, permanent, and hard to detect (What is Cyberbullying, 2018). The anonymity afforded by screens makes it easier for perpetrators to say harmful things without facing the victim directly. In 2015, the School Crime Supplement found that 21% of students aged 12 to 18 experienced some form of cyberbullying (Student Victimization in U.S. Schools, 2018). The 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System indicated that approximately 14.9% of high school students were bullied online in the past year (Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, 2018).

The Impact of Bullying

Over the past two decades, extensive research has been conducted on the effects of bullying. Both cyberbullying and traditional bullying have been linked to increased adolescent suicide risk, according to Litwiller & Brausch (2015). Their study revealed that both forms of bullying predict suicidal behavior, violence, unsafe sexual behavior, and substance abuse, with cyberbullying having a slightly more pronounced effect on these behaviors. Victims of bullying often experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, which may lead them to use substances as a coping mechanism (Litwiller & Brausch, 2015). Moreover, the American Psychological Association reports that traditional bullying affects academic performance, with chronic or increasing levels linked to lower academic achievement and a negative attitude towards school. A study by Messias et al. found that 27.4% of individuals who experienced both cyberbullying and school bullying had increased suicidal ideations, plans, attempts, and attempts requiring treatment.

Policy Implications and Solutions

In terms of policy, New York State has limited laws addressing bullying. Both school bullying and outside-of-school bullying are primarily classified as harassment. However, the Dignity for All Students Act, enacted on July 1st, 2012, aims to provide a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, harassment, and bullying on school property, buses, and at school functions (The Dignity Act, 2012). This law can only create a meaningful impact if students are educated about the dangers of bullying and are aware of these legal protections. In 2012, Senator Jack M. Martins added cyberbullying to existing New York State legislation, recognizing that technology was often used to facilitate bullying. This new law empowered schools to increase their control over bullying through reporting, investigation, intervention, training, and prevention measures (Cyberbullying Legislation Signed into Law, 2015).

Conclusion

In conclusion, both traditional bullying and cyberbullying pose significant threats to the well-being of individuals, particularly adolescents. Cyberbullying, with its persistent and pervasive nature, can be as detrimental as traditional bullying, if not more so. The emotional and psychological impacts are profound, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and even suicidal tendencies. While current policies like New York's Dignity Act provide a framework for addressing these issues, ongoing education and awareness are crucial. Society must recognize the seriousness of both forms of bullying and take comprehensive steps to combat them, ensuring a safer environment for all students.

Did you like this example?

715

38