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Cyberbullying: Crossing the Limits
The blogosphere is abuzz due to several well-publicized episodes of cyberbullying. Nancy Willard, an attorney with the Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use (CSRIU) defines cyberbullying this way:
Being cruel to others by sending or posting harmful material or engaging in other forms of social aggression using the Internet.Most of us have brushed-up against some kind of online hostility.
Cyberbullying includes flaming, harassment, denigration, impersonation, trickery, and cyberstalking.
Having read and replied to thousands of member inquiries at the WebMD Eye & Vision Disorder Message Board I have had a few run-ins with cyberbullies. You can really feel the hostility, the anger. Some visitors are disproportionately upset about a possible health problem and are impatient for a response. They probably overlook their rudeness, and so do I. I've been flamed for not providing precise diagnostic information or treatment recommendations, even though publishing such information would be reckless and unethical!
For some bloggers the cyberbully problem has progressed from obnoxious name-calling to specific threats of violence. The (supposed) anonymity of the Internet likely encourages these spineless acts. Some justify such antisocial acts as an exercise of 'free speech', demonstrating a dual ignorance of civilized behavior and our Constitution. Even though hostile posts can be deleted, harm has already been inflicted, and those who have been violated remain scared and scarred.
The first step in effective problem-solving is awareness. You can't fix what you don't know. Share these 3 valuable resources with your family and friends:
Okay, maybe you didn't invent the Internet, but you can take responsibility for keeping it a safe and enjoyable environment for all who visit!
Related Topics:Editor's Note: PBS Teachers have declared Friday, March 30th "Stop Cyberbullying Day" - a day to take action by blogging, sharing video, resources and ideas about ways to take a stand against cyberbullying.
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