Bullies have always been around. In fact, if we consider world history on a corrupt-kings-and-tyrannical-leadership scale, it used to be worse. Things got better for countries who embraced the concept of human rights, but even then bullies remained.
So why this recent focus frenzy on bullying? Has it really gotten worse lately or do we just hear about it more? The tragic teen suicides and school shootings have definitely put the issue into the spotlight. But no, bullying is not new, though something else is: computer technology and the Internet and, in turn, cyber-bullying.
At one time, children could come home and get away from the negative peer behaviour that was going on at school. Now, the moment they turn on their computers, log in to social networking sites, or flip open their cell phones, it could be there waiting for them.
Cyber-bullying is especially dangerous because, a) it can be constant (can’t get away as mentioned above), b) it can be hard for adults to notice (unlike a black eye), c) it can be more malicious than face-to-face bullying because perpetrators have a sense of protective anonymity, and d) it can be hard to stop because perpetrators actually CAN be anonymous and almost impossible to catch.
I appreciate technology, I really do. But if we’re not careful, it could make a lot of things worse, including bullying. Are children and teens with their heads glued to iPads and thumbs stuck to iPhones learning proper socials skills, conflict resolution, and so forth? Are parents who are likewise addicted to technology noticing what’s going on with their children? Are they spending time teaching them to be sociable, kind, and accountable?
If we adults don’t control the technology in our lives by monitoring Internet usage, watching for cyber-bullies, and unplugging often to practice positive face-to-face communication, then who will?
I wish they'd bump you up to 500 words. Bring on the "We want Kath" picketers.
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