In Our Corner
By: Hilary Fenske
With all the technology available to us these days, we need to remember the same technology is available to our children. The internet and text messaging has taken gossiping and bullying to a new level. Bullies can cause physical, verbal, and mental abuse. The online predators are not necessarily adults. Cyberbullies can do emotional harm through email, text, and personal on-line sites. Once the words are out there, they are not easy to take back. It can lead to intimidation, fear, depression, violence, and many other problems.
We all need to watch out for harmful words being passed around. If you or someone you know is a target of being bullied there are many things you can do to put a stop to it. First, tell the person to stop. If it continues, keep records and don’t delete any text messages or emails that are received. If necessary change your email address, internet account, username, or cell phone. Then only give the information to those close to you. Finally, report it. Make sure your children know they can talk to you.
Play it safe on the internet!
· Don’t personally meet people you only know from online
· Go to age appropriate sites
· Be respectful when writing online
· Don’t share your personal information online
· Choose usernames and passwords carefully
· Take caution when responding to a message from someone you may not know
· Watch for others being hurt online to make cyberspace a safer place
Missouri Shores Domestic Violence Center
Office Phone (605)224-0256
E-mail: domestic@missourishores.com
24 Hour Crisis Hotline: (605) 224-7187
Or toll free: 1-800-696-7187
