What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is the act of using technologies such as e-mails, cell phones, or text messaging with the intent to harm others.  Cyberbullies may harass, stalk, defame, impersonate, and threaten their victims (Chibbaro, 2007).

Cyberbullying behaviors can be indirect and direct.  An example of an indirect form is flaming.  Flaming is an argument between two people that includes vulgar and rude language, insults, and threats.  Examples of direct cyberbullying include harassment, exclusion, and denigration.  An individual that is being harassed may receive constant hurtful messages through a variety of technologies.  Online exclusion occurs when victims are left out of online chatrooms involving their peers and other forms of technological communication.  Denigration occurs most frequently with students who are angry at an administrator.  They will create a web site to ridicule and ruin the reputation of their victim (Chibbaro, 2007). 

ANYONE can become an offender or victim of cyberbullying.  It does not matter what gender, race, or ethnicity you are.  It appears that there is very little research regarding cyberbullying and multicultural issues surrounding it at the current moment.

The purpose of this site is to educate and inform students, parents, and educators about cyberbullying and the issues surrounding it.