Man... I never realised.
Speed of communication and accessibility of information are two of the positive aspects of the
new technologies. Unfortunately there are also negative aspects such as increased isolation and
perceived anonymity of communications which can tempt people to do things that they would never
do face-to-face.
Consequences
The perception of invisibility and the lack of tangible feedback can result in people distancing
themselves from their actions and the resulting fall-out. They believe that because it’s “just a
game”, no one can get hurt.
It is well known that this is not so. Bullying in any form can result in long-term psychological
harm such as low self-esteem, depression, anger, poor academic performance, truancy, and, in some
cases, violence against self or others.
Comment from young person in the Bullying. No way! Forums:
What can I do?
- Understand that your actions can cause harm to unseen others.
- Learn to do what is right through your own moral code rather than in response to the potential of detection and punishment.
- Learn to use effective decision-making strategies to help guide your behaviour in a responsible way.
Some questions to ask myself
What is motivating me to behave this way?
Am I showing respect for others and myself?
How would I feel if someone did this me or my best friend?
What would happen if everybody decided to do this?
Do I want to be part of the problem or part of the solution?
For information about safe and responsible use of the internet
Visit the following online resources provided by the Commonwealth Government through their NetAlert website:
Netty’s World (Ages 2-7)
http://www.nettysworld.com.au/
A website which helps young children learn about internet safety through fun interactive activities.
CyberQuoll (Ages 8-12)
http://www.cyberquoll.com.au/hub.htm
Designed for primary school students, with support materials developed for
teachers to help educate students about internet safety. Parents/carers are
also encouraged to use CyberQuoll at home.
CyberNetrix (Ages 13-16)
http://www.cybernetrix.com.au/
An interactive resource designed for secondary school students, with accompanying teacher support materials.
WiseUpToIt (Ages: youth)
http://www.wiseuptoit.com.au/
A site for youth that explores the lives of four young people and their experiencs on the internet. Four situations. Four victims. Four stories. Many strategies. They learnt the hard way...but you don't have to.
...and from the Australian Communications and Media Authority:
Cybersmart Kids Online (Ages up to 18) http://www.cybersmartkids.com.au
Smart net surfing ideas for kids and their grown-ups.
Also see resources listed on other pages of this Spotlight.
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