Written by: Pearl Kupe
Article Source: JOY! Magazine

What is Cyber Bullying?
Definition: “Cyber bullying involves the use of information and communication technologies to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behaviour by an individual or group that is intended to harm others.” (Belsey 2004).

It is the persistent and intentional harassment, humiliation, and abuse of an individual or individuals using the avenue of social media. Since communication is posted using the internet, it can leave a permanent online footprint, which may prove difficult or almost impossible to remove.

This includes text messages, emails, Facebook posts, WhatApp messages, Instagram posts, and so forth. Rumours (unsubstantiated information) are posted on social network sites. This information is generally intended to harm a person’s reputation, and the agenda is to damage their name and destroy or negatively impact their life. The typical cyber bully will ordinarily create momentum by mobilising and encouraging others to join them in their cyber bullying endeavours. 

South Africa has one of the highest rates of cyber bullying in the world! According to the 2018 report by research company IPSOS Global Advisor, South Africa ranked the highest prevalence of cyber bullying amongst 28 other countries.

Effects of Cyber Bullying
Cyber bullying can have devastating effects for the intended victims. It can impact negatively on their businesses and affect their financial incomes. More importantly, it can impact the intended victims’ emotional health to a point where they become increasingly stressed, fearful, anxious, and worried. In some extreme instances, after experiencing prolonged cyber bullying, some individuals have even committed suicide.

Cyber bullying can not only destroy a person’s image, it can also destroy their future and any future prospects they may have in life. The effects of cyber bullying are not limited to an individual, but can affect the intended victim’s family, children, parents, spouse, and extended family.

Cyber bullying and the youth
Cyber bullying has particularly devastating effects on children. Children are vulnerable and often have self-esteem issues. They want to make a good impression on their peers, so cyberbullying that depicts them negatively will have a more devastating impact on them.

Signs to look out for that may indicate that your child is being cyber bullied
Your child is showing signs of fear, nervousness, and anxiety. They may stop socialising and become more withdrawn. They may become angry, depressed, and more emotional. There may be changes in their eating habits. Many will stop using technological devices (laptops, phones) because of the cyber bullying. 

Cyber Bullying & Kingdom Protocol
As Believers, the word of God encourages us to have salty speech. In other words, we are expected to add flavour when we communicate – not to harass, bully, or intimidate others through the means of social media.

Words are important. Matthew 12:37 tells us that “by our words you will be justified. By your words, you will be condemned”. Matthew 12:34-36 also reminds us that a day is coming (judgement) when we will have to give account for all that we have said. Cyber bullying is not behaviour that a Spirit-filled Believer who has the love of God will engage in.

Before posting online
Before posting a mean, cruel, or harmful remark, think on these thoughts:

  • Is what I am posting true, and even if it is true; is it relevant and necessary for society to know?
  • Is what I am posting kind, edifying, and building? What would Jesus Do (WWJD)?
  • How would I react if such a post was made about me? 

Dealing With Cyber Bullying

  • When dealing with cyber bullying, a believer’s first option should be to attempt to talk to the offender and explore means of taking the matter offline, with a view to peacefully resolve the issue.
  • If the cyber bully refuses to listen to reason, it becomes necessary to protect individuals from the verbal onslaught. This may be done in the following ways:
  • Screenshot any bullying comments as evidence
  • Report the cyberbullying to the relevant social media network. They will assess the situation and deal with the cyber bullying by deleting the post, banning the bullies, and so forth. They can and will suspend or permanently ban any known cyber bullies from their social media platform.

Some SA institutions that deal with cyber bullying:
Dept. of Justice & Constitutional development – 012 315 1111
Childline  – 080 005 5555
Lifeline – 011 728 1347
Legal Aid South Africa – 011 877 2000

South Africa, say NO to cyber bullying. Ke Nako!

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Date published: 15/09/2019
DR. Pearl Kupe is an attorney & International consultant to World leaders & International organisations & International President-Global Forum for Women Entrepreneurs. Email pearl.kupe@gmail.com

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