Cyberbullying & Online Kindness
Learn to recognize cyberbullying in all its forms, stand up for yourself and others, and help make the internet a kinder place.
📍 Where you are in the curriculum: Week 11 of 12
Over the past 10 weeks, you've focused on technical threats and defenses. But some of the most harmful things online aren't viruses or scams — they're people being cruel to other people. This week uses your critical thinking skills (Week 2) and knowledge of digital permanence (Week 10) to address cyberbullying.
What Is Cyberbullying? 💬
You've probably heard the word "bullying" before. Cyberbullying is when bullying happens online — through texts, social media, group chats, games, or anywhere on the internet.
But here's the thing: cyberbullying isn't just someone calling you a name one time. It's a pattern of behavior meant to hurt, embarrass, or scare someone.
Types of Cyberbullying
🎯 Direct Attacks
Someone sends you mean messages, insults, or threats directly.
Example: A player in Roblox keeps messaging you "you're trash" and "nobody wants you here" every time you join a server.
🔄 Spreading Rumors
Someone shares lies or embarrassing things about you with others.
Example: Someone screenshots a private conversation and shares it in a group chat, adding mean comments.
🚫 Exclusion
Purposely leaving someone out to hurt their feelings.
Example: Your friend group creates a new Minecraft server and invites everyone except you — on purpose.
📸 Outing / Sharing Private Stuff
Sharing someone's secrets, private photos, or personal information without permission.
Example: Someone shares an embarrassing photo of you from a sleepover in a class group chat.
How Is It Different From Regular Disagreements?
Not every mean thing someone says online is cyberbullying. According to StopBullying.gov ↗, here's how to tell the difference:
| Disagreement / One-Time Thing | Cyberbullying |
|---|---|
| Happens once or twice | Happens repeatedly |
| The person feels bad about it | The person keeps doing it on purpose |
| You can talk it out | Talking about it doesn't help |
| It's between equals | One person (or group) has more power |
🧠 Remember: Even if someone says "it's just a joke" or "I was only kidding," if it hurts you and keeps happening, it's not a joke. Your feelings matter.