Cyberbullying

I. Introduction

A. Bullying involves an imbalance of power between the victim and the bully.

B. Bullying is more than just isolated incidents of negative behavior; it requires repetitive behavior.

C. Cyberbullying occurs electronically, via the internet, cell phones, and social media.

II. Imbalance of power

A. Bullies have some type of power over victims.

B. There are different ways that bullies can exert power over victims.

1. Social power

2. Financial power

3. Sexual power

4. Group power

C. Bullying cannot be mutual, but bullies and victims can switch roles over time.

III. Bullying is repetitive.

A. Not all mean actions are bullying.  

B. To qualify as bullying, behaviors have to be repetitive.

C. Not all acts of bullying have to be committed by one bully to be considered part of a repetitive pattern of bullying.  

IV. Cyberbullying occurs electronically.

A. Cyberbullying can occur several ways:

1. Internet

2. Cell phones

3. Social Media

B. Cyberbullying may occur only online or can be combined with in-person bullying.

V. Conclusion

A. Cyberbullying occurs electronically.

B. Cyberbullying involves a pattern of behavior.

C. Cyberbullying either creates or exacerbates a power imbalance between the bully and the victim.  

Cyberbullying: What Is It and How Do I Stop It? 

Is Being Mean Online Always Cyberbullying?

What Role Do Power Imbalances Play in Cyberbullying? 

How Cyberbullying Extends the Reach of Schoolyard Bullies

Can Adults Be Cyberbullied? 

When Does Online Behavior Cross the Line: Understanding Cyberbullying in the Context of Internet Social Rules

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Vaillancourt, T., McDougall, P., Hymel, S., & Sunderani, S.  (2010).  Respect or Fear?  The Relationship Between Power and Bullying Behavior.  In S.R. Jimerson, S.M. Swearer, & D.L. Espelage (Eds)., Handbook of Bullying in Schools: An International Perspective (p.211-222).  Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.