While searching for a certain topic to write about, I came across a video from the Early Show on CBS. In the video are two different women who have been hurt by cyber bulling; one being bullied herself while the other had a daughter who was bullied over the internet. Throughout the interview each of the women talks about how this issue is nothing minor. It affects all people, especially children, and it is difficult to detect. Tina Meier, whose daughter committed suicide as a result of being bullied, encourages parents to have an open communication with their kids and not to let things go unnoticed.
After watching the broadcast I began to wonder what other preventative measure parents could be taking in order to stop such disasters from occurring in the future. Although I do not believe it is the sole responsibility of the parent to monitor their child's every move, the parent should still be aware of what their child is doing on the internet. Knowing what social media sites they are on and educating them on the dangers of cyber-bulling is a good first step. However, knowing the signs and symptoms of cyber-bulling in a child are key entities that every parent should know. Being an active parent means stepping in when something does not look right. By having knowledge about cyber-bullying, parents are more likely to prevent disasters before it is too late.
Overall, what Tina Meier suggested about having an open relationship with your child is extremely important. Parents should know when to step in and when to trust their kids, just as kids should be able to trust their parents and be able to reach out to them when they feel like they have no one. The other girl in the interview attempted to kill herself and was actually hospitalized for some time in order to cope with cyber-bullying. She states how she never reached out to anyone. She felt as if she couldn’t and that no one was there to help her. This situation is dangerous and proves that parents need to communicate with their children and listen to what they have to say, because at some point it may be dire.
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=6146188n
I agree with the article and you that cyberbulling is extremely dangerous and a very real threat for kids. Parents should be proactive and know their children well enough to tell when something isn't right. I agree that parents should get involved in this and educate their children on what exactly cyberbullying is as well as how to cope with it should it ever occur.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the article you found by Tina Meier. Open relationships can help kids to be less afraid to come to their parents to help them through these types of situations. Cyber-bullying is a growing epidemic which is why parents should monitor thier kid's activities on the Internet.
ReplyDelete