Does cyberbullying occur frequently within a school population or is it an unusual event?
TJ: It depends on the studies and statistics you read. But bottom line, it is no longer an unusual event. A recent study (Oct. 26, 2010) from the Josephson Institute in California reports that half of U.S. students in high school report they have bullied or teased someone at least once in the past year and nearly half say they’ve been bullied during that time. It is a growing concern here and globally. There is a 33-member European organization studying and attempting to combat cyberbullying. What are the most common effects of cyberbullying/cyberharassment on society? Do you think the problem will get better or worse in the years ahead? TJ: There are a few studies showing just what you’d expect from personal attacks online or by phone. They include depression, missed school, withdrawal from school activities, fear, loneliness and desperation in the worst cases. These situations have an effect on families and communities. Just one look at South Hadley, MA since January of this year spe
