Some startling statistics:

• Several studies have shown that over 72% of youth have reported having at least one incident of bullying while online.
• 90% of these cases remain unreported to adults.  Children often respond with the statement, “I need to learn to deal with it myself.”

• Your child could be affected by cyberbullying. Because of the impersonal nature of communications, the internet is a breeding ground for bullying .  The bully never sees the face of the victim when they are spreading information about that person.  Therefore, the problem is very widespread.
• Cyberbullying is hard to detect, since you are not always present when cyberbullying is taking place.  Also, children like to cover up questionable activity online because they are afraid their parents may restrict their online use.
• Cyberbullying is frightening because you may be unfamiliar with the type of communication being used. Children often feel that there are no consequences for their actions when dealing with technology. There are not the same punishments in place as in the classroom, so children feel like they can get away with more online.

By educating yourself about cyberbullying, you are reducing the risk that your child will be affected by cyberbullying. This site will help you be less frightened about the issue of cyberbullying and enable you to be proactive to prevent the problem from even starting.

Next: What is cyberbullying?