In this article we will raise this topic, since this is a really serious problem, we will fully understand what it is and how to avoid this type of bullying. First, you need to understand that this type of bullying came to us with the advent of social networks and, unfortunately, will live on for a long time.
Cyberbullying is a form of harassment, bullying, torment, or humiliation using electronic means. It can also be known as online bullying, and it can be done in various ways, such as through social media sites, websites, instant messages, text messages, and even email.
According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, the number of cyberbullied students is over 36%. Which is the largest percentage since the organization is tracking this problem. So, no wonder why cyberbullying research topics for college students is becoming so popular. Students and even teachers are constantly trying to educate themselves and others about it and its effects to find ways to prevent it. Even many free essay samples written about this problem on sites like Eduzaurus give a holistic look at this issue and include information on the types of cyberbullying and how students can protect themselves and their friends.
Cyberbullying is way different from bullying in person, and it can manifest itself in many ways. Such as:
Cyberstalking — this happens when someone uses technology to constantly threaten, intimidate or harass someone else. Most of the time, they tab on their victims and are trying to meet them in person.
Impersonation - This involves profiles or accounts that impersonate the victim. A form of it includes gaining unauthorized access to the victim's account.
Flaming - This happens when someone posts derogatory comments about another person. It can happen on social media or websites or messages and chatrooms.
Trolling — This presents the deliberate act of provoking a response by using inflammatory statements. And it is mostly done so the troll can feel better about himself by making others upset.
Catfishing - This happens when a person pretends to be someone else or using someone else's identity.
Denigration- This involves gossiping or posting rumors about someone. And the main purpose of it is to ruin someone's reputation or relationship.
Those are some types of cyberbullying, although it is important to understand the bullies and the reasons behind their doings to fully understand this problem.
The Effects of Cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying is one of the biggest college issues. Being bullied is stressful enough, but when the internet is added to it, it can be especially hurtful and damaging because the bully's reach on the victim is unlimited.
As a result of cyberbullying, students can experience a lot of negative effects such as depression, anxiety, decreased performance at their university, changes in sleeping and eating habits, feelings of isolation and lowered self-esteem, losing interest in their hobbies, and withdrawing from their friends and families, and even using drugs or alcohol to cope. In addition, if left unchecked, students can even feel drawn to self-harm and even have suicidal thoughts.
How to Solve Cyberbullying.
The consequences can be severe, so students and teachers need to work together to prevent it. Various strategies can help, such as:
The teachers can teach the students about cyberbullying and let them know it is okay to report it if it is happening to them. They could also create an environment in the classroom that is respectful and tolerant and teach the students that they should also respect others online. Finally, and most importantly, implement anti-cyberbullying policies in their classrooms.
And students should always think twice before posting online and avoid posting things that can harm them. They should also stay away from unknown people and avoid messaging already known bullies. And, of course, treat everyone and everything with respect.
How to avoid Cyberbullying.
The internet may be helpful to students in many forms, especially with education, such as with their tests, essays and gives them research materials. High school students can even learn how to enter to college by researching online. However, by now, you've understood that besides the positive effects, there are many negatives, such as cyberbullying. So, the following are some tips on how to stay safe online and avoid becoming a victim.
- Never give others your password.
- Use strong privacy settings.
- Never post-school location, phone number, or address online.
- Don't click on links sent from unknown people.
- Don't accept friend requests from everyone.
- Don't respond to abusive posts.
- Set up security questions on every account.
- Don't allow programs that track your location.
Conclusion:
The most important thing to remember about this problem is that you are not alone, and it is not your fault. Many times, victims feel like they have done something wrong that provoked their own victimization. This is never true. It is never the victim's fault. Also, remember that it is okay to be afraid, but you should stay strong and speak up to tell someone. Because there is always help, and by speaking up, you will find it and get through this easier. Everything will get better.
