Tuesday, June 17, 2008

The Rise Of Cyber Bullying

Internet usage by people has increased, which means to say, there is also a rise in cyber bullying. Online bullying includes the sending of threatening messages, displaying private messagesand posting embarrassing video footages and photos on the internet. Cyber bullying can also come in the form of games. Cyber bullying is a relentless attack. It can happen to anybody, like children, teenagers, adults, celebrities or even teachers. Online communication encourage people to act aggressively, thus, they can do things they would not dare to do in real life. This is beacause the online bullies can choose to stay anonymous. The lack of face-to-face contact might tempt the bullies to new levels of cruelty.

The cyber bullying situation in Asia is rampant. In Singapore, 80 cases were reported last year. This is very unsightly. There are more cases in the United States. Cyber bullies tend to think that cyber bullying is a very common issue and they would not have thought of the severe consequences that the victims face. Some of the victims committed suicide and some even fall into serious depression. Just like Ryan Halligan's case, he was taunted for months. His classmates spread rumors via the instant messaging that the 13-year-old boy was a gay. Unable to cope, he killed himself. Even numerous mysterious calls can also lead to the death of a victim. This is no joking matter. It is extremely devastating to see that teenagers as young as 13 taking their own life because they are being cyber bullied. Even celebrities are facing such undiserable problems- Jeong Da-Bin committed suicide after receving scandals from the public.

In my opinion, I feel that cyber bullying is a very serious problem now. It will just bring harm to more people. I abhor the cyber bullies as they are the most unrealistic and cruel people. They have not thought twice before bullying their friends. Their friends are also human beings and they have feelings. The bullies have also not considered that they are also hurting others like the victim's family members. What if, the bullies were the ones who get bullied? Having to taste their own medicine, i believe that they will not be able to tolerate the insulting remarks from others. I personally feel that parents should control their chindren over the usage of the computer and also to keep in track what the kids are doing. This may probably help to reduce the cases of cyber bullying. In conclusion, I feel that there should be peace and harmony between people and everyone should think twice before they decide to do anything.

Alicia (1)

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