25. When Cyber bullying is reported

Take all reports seriously and investigate them and take action to handle the situation with effectiveness. Most students do not report victimization as they are too scared.

One girl suffered cyber bullying a long time as she did not report thinking that she will be prohibited from using social networks by her parents. Take your time to ask right questions.

Do not blame the victim. Praise him for the courage to report bullying. Never ask why they did not report before or did you tell your parents or why they are going online. Reassure the victim and offer advice. Assure the student that the bully will not know who reported

the incident. Tell the victim not to act upset or angry in front of the bully and to keep the lines of

communication open with an adult at all times. Do not tell a victim to fight back.

Most cyber bullying do not have a deep-rooted psychological or emotional impact. However, if you find the victim seems withdrawn, chronically depressed, or is exhibiting any other signs of trauma, connect the student or right help from school counselor or psychologist if needed.

When handing a cyberbuillying case try to understand motives for the bully’s behavior. Mostly they do bully others to satisfy a desire or need by the bully.

• Gaining attention, recognition, prestige, or acceptance in a peer group.

• Access to an activity or item.

• Strong needs for power and dominance to enjoy being “in control” by hurting, or humiliating others.

• A lack of understanding of social, cultural, psychological, or physical differences and norms.

Monitor the progress of students who have been found to bully. Watch them closely and letthem

know they are being watched. Make sure they are aware of future consequences.

Notify the parents of any bullying situations of their child. Parents play an important role in eliminating bullying behaviors in a student or helping those who have been victimized.