An observation

You'd think that being an interactive media major, I would know how pervasive technology is in our life's. More than that, you'd think I'd know the frequent role social media and the internet plays in everyday life.

But I guess I don't,  Because that fact crept up behind me and gave me a bite on the tuckus. After a recent event in my life, it became clear just how much social media I use and how it can all be changed after one occurrence. One minute YOU'RE retreating something from someone, then the next minute YOU'RE blocking them on Facebook.  How easy is it to shut people out through the use of social media? How hard is it to run and hide from them when they're nowhere and everywhere at the same time?

Just a thought.

Will we ever find solutions to cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying has been a huge issue (or at least the media protrays it to be) since the birth of the internet. It appears that there has been an increase of suicide rates among the younger generation because of this cyberbullying phenomenon. My take on the matter, like everything else, is kind of right down the middle.

I acknowledge that bullying exists, whether it is virtual or real, and it hurts no matter what. The internet makes bullying easier for offenders and more damaging for victims. Cyberbullies can, in most cases, hide behind their online persona, while victims are left being attacked by an entity that they might not even know. Cyberbullying is an issue without a doubt, and Amanda Todd's story (among so many others) is proof of that.

However, I feel that the media only sheds light on the issue when something MAJOR occurs. They don't acknowledge the other instances of bullying that might be going on online. There is also just as much bullying taking place in the real world, and I think that unfortunately it takes a backseat to cyberbullying.

The  issue in general is bullying, and ultimately punishment is necessary. With that being said, I don't think the school system should be getting involved. I think that parents are the ones who need to be teaching their kids NOT to bully others. If they start there, think of how much bullying could be avoided? Parents need to parent, not the schools. The schools can obviously do their part in promoting kindness over bullying, but overall parents hold the responsibility of teaching their kids how to act properly.