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.
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