Cyberbullying generally refers to the act of using technology to harass, threaten, embarrass and target another person.
This act is usually carried out using electronic devices such as computers and smart phones.
Cyberbullying has a hurtful and brutal nature; it is also important to note that it is an illegal action that has dire consequences.
Cyberbullying can also result from lack of knowledge as some people tend to believe that they are practicing their right to freedom of speech without considering the fact that they are violating the rights of others.
A major source of cyberbullying is social media.
SOME OF THE REASONS WHY PEOPLE PRACTICE CYBERBULLYING INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
Seeking some form of revenge, it can be revenge for events that happened in a physical environment.
Lack of empathy.
Desire for power (Attention seeking and derisive behavior).
Others are influenced by Peer Pressure
Online disinhibition also perpetuates cyberbullying.
IMPACT OF CYBERBULLYING ON THE VICTIMS.
Victims of cyberbullying may find themselves suffering from mental health issues.
They are most likely to have long lasting emotional effects.
People who are victims of cyberbullying live in isolation and feel helpless most of the time.
The aforementioned information shows that CYBERBULLYING is an inhuman act and in developing a good digital citizenship one needs to avoid such actions. Another important thing is trying to protect yourself by engaging with people who uphold high morals and repect the digital world .
Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation. Some cyberbullying crosses the line into unlawful or criminal behavior.
The most common places where cyberbullying occurs are:
Social Media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Tik Tok
Text messaging and messaging apps on mobile or tablet devices
Instant messaging, direct messaging, and online chatting over the internet
Online forums, chat rooms, and message boards, such as Reddit