Consequences of Cyberbullying

There isn’t very much research on the consequences of cyber bullying yet. However, it could have even more serious consequences than face-to-face bullying.

Several things could make cyberbullying worse than regular bullying.

a bigger audience, anonymity, written words last longer than spoken ones, the ability to reach a target at any time, and bullies can reach victims at 'safe' places, like their homes

A cyberbully doesn't bully someone face-to-face. They can't always see how their victim reacts. This could cause them to attack more aggressively. They could also be more persistent in their attacks.

A cyberbully can’t be physically violent. They can only threaten physical violence. But this doesn’t mean that they can’t hurt someone else. Research has shown that verbal and emotional bullying may be worse for victims long-term.

References: Campbell, Marilyn A. (2007) Cyber bullying and young people: Treatment principles not simplistic advice. In www.scientist-practitioner.com, Paper of the week 23rd February 2007.

*Conn, K. (2004). Bullying and harassment: A legal guide for educators. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

**Reid, P., Monsen, J., Rivers, I. (2004). Psychology's contribution to understanding and managing bullying within schools. Educational Psychology in Practice, 20, 241-258.