Advantages and Disadvantages of Cyber Bullying

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cyber Bullying

 

source from:http://kuro-kuro.org/archives/6271

 

Computers are clearly involved in cyberbullying and that is what makes it so much different from traditional bullying. The advantage to having computers in cyberbullying is that the victims can have proof of the harassment that has taken place. Every conversation that is had can be traced back through the IP address so the laws can be enforced. This also makes it easier for schools to enforce their code of conduct. Because it is now a law for schools to monitor bullying on the school grounds, they must trace all conversations that could be considered harassment and all websites visited. (Hinduja and Patchin, 2011) If there were no computers involved, then it becomes the victim’s word against the bullies. The winners in this instance would be the ones trying to pass laws to stop cyberbullying. They now have the ability to see how much this act actually occurs and they have the proof they need to do something about it.

SOS
The disadvantages of computers are that they allow people to become victims of cyberbullying. There are now many more ways that teenagers can be harassed and bullied when they have access to the internet. This type of bullying is even worse because it invades the victims’ life in a place they are comfortable in and think they are safe. Because they are being harassed in their personal area, cyberbullying leads to more depression decreased self esteem, loneliness and suicide which are all big disadvantages. Victims of cyberbullying are 1.9 times more likely to attempt suicide than other teenagers their age. Also, the bullies are 1.5 times more likely to attempt suicide. This act has a negative impact on everyone involved even if they aren’t the victim. (Hinduja and Patchin, 2010b)