Many of us have dealt with bullying at some point in our lives. For kids today, however, bullying is more pervasive than ever, thanks to rapidly advancing technologies and like mobile devices and social media platforms.
Bullying used to take the form of harsh words on the playgrounds, shoves in the hallways, or notes passed in study hall. Today, it can be done from and to anywhere — often anonymously.
The term “cyber bullying ” includes a range of aggressive behaviors committed via modern technology. The goal of cyberbullying is to harass, demean, intimidate, or taunt another person with the intent to hurt or embarrass them. The most common forms of cyberbullying are offensive name-calling or the spread of false or harmful rumors.
In contrast with in-person threats, cyberbullying makes use of internet technologies, mobile devices, video games, and social media. Much our children’s lives are conducted across virtual communication systems like Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Texts, chats, email, and online games are also rife with opportunities to cyberbully.
Whereas a playground bully must face their victim (and risk witnesses), it’s much easier to engage in cyberbullying behind an anonymous screen. This distance often emboldens bullies to act or say things they would never do in person.
The effects of cyberbullying can be devastating — both physically and emotionally. Victims of cyberbullying have trouble adjusting at school and they’re twice as likely as non-bullied kids to suffer from anxiety, sleep difficulties, and depression. Bullying victims are also more likely to suffer from physical ailments like stomach aches and headaches.
Cyberbullying, like all aggressive behaviors, is a systemic issue and that can’t be changed with one action or by one person alone. That’s why each of us, adults and children alike, must take responsibility for creating a kinder world where bullying has no place.
Hrdaya Manwani 
Amazing 💙
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