Cyberbullying Does Not Discriminate

KINGSTON, R.I. - Sept. 27, 2013 - PRLog -- Most people associate cyberbullying with high school or middle school students, but recent studies have found cyberbullying to be a major problem affecting both the personal and academic life of many college students as well.

A University of Texas study reported, “Harassment via social media, text message, and other electronic communications are having a harmful effect on the college environment – actions which merit an official response from administrators.”

It is imperative that college students be prepared to protect themselves and deal with cyberbullying if/when it happens to them. Colleges that want to provide a safe learning environment for their students should be asking themselves, “What are we doing to help minimize cyberbullying on our campus?”

Students surveyed in a University of Texas study indicated that, “When a victim’s life was imperiled, the university should play a major role in curbing the cyberbullying that is the root cause.”

The dangers of campus cyberbullying should not be marginalized. In 2010, the issue of college cyberbullying gained national attention when a Rutgers University Freshman committed suicide by jumping off the George Washington Bridge, following an incident in which his roommate posted compromising videos of him online.

A study conducted by the University of Minnesota found, “College students are not only using Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and other social media sites to cyberbully others, but also university technology infrastructures intended for educational purposes and other platforms for online learning.”

Indiana State University researchers reported that, “15% of their students were being bullied (face-to-face), and 22% were being cyberbullied.”

There are many individuals who are vulnerable to cyberbullying. Faculty members are not immune. There is a significant number of students cyberbullying their professors too. Boston University found that “Faculty and staff members are on the receiving end of smear campaigns as well.” As the number of online users continues to skyrocket, cyberbullying is expected to dramatically escalate in the next few years.

There are dangerous people within the college community causing serious psychological damage by hurting and exploiting others online. By taking proactive steps to “power off cyberbullying” on campus, your students will be better equipped to deal with this problem, both during their college career, and beyond.

Together, we can help continue the quest for positive growth and development of students' attitudes towards themselves and the world. Please consider hosting one of my programs on cyberbullying and other topics at your school.

Want more information? Contact Allison: allison@chrispoulos.com