Web Resources on Cyberbullying
Resources for parents to help children deal with online harassment.
Nov. 29, 2007 — -- Parry Aftab, the executive director of WiredSafety.org , works to arm parents with information to keep their kids safe online.
Aftab also works with www.StopCyberBullying.org.
Don't overreact and don't threaten to shut off the Internet connection. Your child has to know he or she can come to you and not be blamed or punished.
Teach your kids to protect their passwords, even from their best friends. Often these "best friends" turn out to be a worst enemy. Armed with your child's password, another person can go into their accounts and wreak havoc. If they've shared their passwords, you should have them change them.
If you think something is going on, Google your kids. Type their name, cell phone number and screen name into a search engine and see what comes up. It's an effective way to tell whether negative information is out there on your kids.
You can also sign up to get a "Google alert" so that every time your child's name comes up, you'll get an e-mail message.
Web Sites With More Information
Below are some links to helpful Web sites for parents and kids about cyberbullying and bullying.
Dr. Elizabeth Englander, Bridgewater State College
Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center
John Halligan, whose son, Ryan, was featured in the "Primetime" segment
General Cyberbullying Info:
Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use
Parry Aftab, attorney specializing in cyberabuse and privacy issues
Aftab's description of how to cancel MySpace account
Dr. Robin Kowalski, Clemson University
Article: Bullying Over the Internet