It is mean. It is nasty. It is personal and it is planned to embarrass and humiliate. Add in the computer and other electronic media and what might have been somewhat "private" acts become public humiliations.

Bullying and Cyberbullying (using the computer or other electronic media) is defined as sending mean, hurtful or threatening messages or images about another person; to post sensitive or private information about another person to hurt or embarrass them; pretend to be someone else to make that person look bad or exclude them from a group.

Cyberbullying has been in the news lately and seems to increase in frequency. It is now well-covered in all media. We've seen stories involving middle school, high school and now college bullying activities.  Bullying can also involve adults and can even take place at work.

The American Conference on Diversity offers bullying prevention education, which includes a focus on cyberbullying, through its "Learning the ABCs: Lessons for Anti-Bullying Communities" program for students, educators, families and communities.

The program increases awareness of bullying behavior and the opportunity to learn about the unique features and impact of cyberbullying.  There are strategies for adults and youth to respond and intervene in bias-related bullying conflicts along with skill-building techniques to foster safe and inclusive school, home and online environments.

It's important to be proactive so all can try to prevent a "tragedy waiting to happen."

Diane