Cyberbullying

Anti-Cyberbullying Strategies for Students

If you or someone you know is a victim of a cyberbullying attack, consider implementing one or all of the following methods to prevent continued threats for your self or others.

1. Tell Someone

If you feel as though someone is threatening, harassing or mocking you over text, social media, email or other digital medium, don’t hesitate to tell someone you trust.

2. Don’t Retaliate

Often, cyberbullies thrive off the attention and frustration they receive from their victims. Instead of responding with aggressive or threatening messages, disregard cyberbullying attempts by deleting or ignoring these messages.

3. Store Information

Collect information surrounding the cyberbullying attempt or issue, including text messages, social media posts, date and time, and any other applicable information. In the event that it becomes part of an investigation or larger, ongoing issue, this information can be helpful to identify and apprehend the instigator.

4. Make Timely Reports

Whether you report the person on social media or call your phone company to block a number, the method used by cyberbullies is always a good starting point. If the initiator doesn’t have access to you via text messages or social media outlets, he or she may decide to abandon cyberbullying.

5. Seek Counseling

Most campuses offer counseling resources to students who are victims of bullying on campus. Because they often more likely to develop mental health issues from the traumatic experience, students should continue to talk with professionals to ensure they properly recover.