Teachers must educate the learners that cyberbullying is bullying that occurs via an electronic device, such as a smartphone, tablet or computer. They should educate students that, cyberbullies accost their victims through text messages, social media, email, and chat rooms. Examples of cyberbullying includes posting embarrassing pictures of victims on the internet, sending rude text messages, and spreading gossip on social media and by email.
Teachers who enroll in school counselling graduate programs can learn effective measures to reduce or eliminate cyberbullying. Some of the most important steps a teacher can take include the following:
1. Take it seriously. When a student reports cyberbullying, involve the school counselor. Become familiar with the social media your students are accessing.
2. Recognize the signs that a student is involved in cyberbullying, either as a victim or as a bully. Make sure you have developed relationships with your students, so you recognize changes in behavior. Look for signs of depression or sudden new friendships.
3. As a teacher, you must instruct the student's parent or guardian to save any screenshots and abusive massages. Use them to report the cyberbullying to a trusted adult. The victim is often afraid to report the bully, so reassure the student that reporting the incident will not make the bully more aggressive.
4. Respond appropriately. Do not over-or underreact. Students need to know that cyberbullying is never okay, but they also need to know that the punishment is appropriate.
5. Notify parents quickly. The greater the number of people involved, the more difficult it is for students to continue cyberbullying.
Parents need to prepare their children and teach them about safe usage of the internet. Also, they need to tell children about the risks that the internet and social media pose. Some other things that you can do are to explain to your child what cyberbullying is and teach them ways to handle cyberbullying. Also, look out for signs of bullying in your child.
SOME WAYS TO HANDLE CYBERBULLYING:
1. As a parent, you should give your child a safe environment at home where they feel free to talk to you about their problems and fears. Engage them in conversation and stay abreast of their online activities and social media use.
2. If you think your child may be the target of online bullying, talk to your child. If they are reluctant to answer your questions, be calm and encourage them to talk. Listen carefully, without judgement and do not overreact in any situation.
3. Check their online history and social media feeds if possible. Save evidence, print screenshots, save conversations, pictures, massages, and videos for proving that your child is being cyberbullied.
4. If they tell you who is bullying them, talk to the parents of the children who are bullying your child and show them the evidence. Some parents may become defensive when confronted and might not be receptive. Be cautious and approach parents only if you think they will be reasonable. If not, contact the school counsellor and make them aware of your child's situation. If neither of them is helpful, you may need to contact the police, especially if the bullies threaten your child.
If your child seems depressed or has anxiety, seek help from a professional counsellor. Your child may be more comfortable talking to a professional rather than you or their teacher.
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