In a recent act of mass harassment, several individuals have become victims of cyberbullying and online persecution in Belize. Producers of the early morning show, Open Your Eyes invited Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, Azalia Larrieu to discuss the social implications of online harassment and how they can impact the victim’s long-term mental health.
Watch META Belize’s Segment on Open Your Eyes
What is Bullying?
Azalia Larrieu, MSW, shares that bullying is the conveyance of aggressive behavior toward someone either to harass, threaten, or cause harm.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying involves the use of digital technology, such as social media, email, text messages, and websites, to harass, threaten, or embarrass individuals.
It’s perpetrated in several ways including spreading rumors, sending threatening messages, impersonating someone online, sharing private information or photos without consent, and continued harassment or exclusion.
The Impact on Victims
- Victims may experience increased stress, anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
- Long-term exposure to cyberbullying can lead to serious mental health problems, including severe depression and suicidal thoughts.
- Cyberbullying can damage relationships within a close-knit community, creating divisions and fostering a climate of fear and mistrust.
- Students who are cyberbullied may suffer academically due to decreased focus, increased absenteeism, and lower self-esteem.
- A rise in cyberbullying incidents can lead to a perceived decrease in community safety and cohesion.
How You can Monitor and Reduce Cyberbullying
Education and Awareness
- Conduct workshops and seminars to educate children, parents, and educators about the signs and effects of cyberbullying.
- Promote digital literacy and responsible online behavior.
- Law Enforcement:
School Policies
- Implement clear anti-bullying policies that include specific provisions for cyberbullying.
- Establish reporting mechanisms for students and parents to report incidents of cyberbullying.
Parental Involvement
- Encourage parents to monitor their children’s online activities and have open discussions about cyberbullying.
- Provide parents with resources and tools to recognize and respond to cyberbullying.
Technological Solutions
- Utilize software and apps that can monitor and filter inappropriate content and behaviors.
- Encourage the use of privacy settings and reporting tools on social media platforms.
Community Support
- Create support groups for victims of cyberbullying to provide emotional and psychological assistance.
- Foster a community-wide culture of empathy and respect, promoting the importance of kindness online and offline.
Law Enforcement
- Work with local law enforcement to address severe cases of cyberbullying and ensure that there are consequences for perpetrators.
- Advocate for laws and regulations that protect individuals from cyberbullying and hold offenders accountable.
By combining education, proactive monitoring, community involvement, and supportive policies, we can effectively combat and reduce the prevalence and impact of cyberbullying.
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