Children fail to understand cyber-bullying

It has been claimed in a recent report that many parents do not think that children understand the full implications of cyber-bullying, which is something that has grown along with the use of the Internet amongst children.

With so many households now having access to broadband services there are many kids that now spend a huge amount of time online, using the internet for all sorts of things from entertainment and listening to music to education, emailing, and social networking.

However, whilst the internet has become invaluable for children in terms of educational and social benefits it has also brought with it a range of dangers and risks, including that of carrying out or becoming the victim of cyber-bullying, which is an activity that has grown somewhat over recent years.

A recent report has been released by Australian communications giant Telstra, and according to the report almost two thirds of parents said that they did not believe that kids fully understood the implications of cyber-bullying. The report was released by Telstra Cyber-Safety Research.

An official from Telstra said: “Cyber bullying can be quite traumatic for young people. Kids who are cyber bullied can feel angry, depressed, embarrassed and sometimes scared for their safety. They can often feel more alone than if the bullying was occurring in person and where there’s a chance someone may hear or see something and intervene. Children often become involved in cyber bullying by passing on or commenting on damaging material, rather than creating it. And it can be hard for kids to understand that they are actually hurting someone online because they can’t see the other person’s face or sense the emotional impact.  A good way to help your child understand whether their online behaviour is acceptable is to ask them if they’d be willing to stand up at school assembly and share what they’ve done. If their answer is ‘no’, then they shouldn’t be willing to do it online either.”

Do you believe cyber-bullying amongst children is becoming a big problem? Let us know with your comments

Source – Telstra