By Cristiana Amaro
Staff Writer

Only 34 states have cyberbullying laws, including Alabama, Connecticut, Hawaii, Indiana, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota etc. Only 30 states ever talk about cyberbullying and harassment.  Also, one in four kids reported being cyberbullied within the last month.  There are many types of way of cyberbullying such as verbal or emotional abuse. Many of people are trying to eliminate cyberbullying in the US by having assemblies at school and doing projects that help show what we should be doing to prevent it. An example would be the Tyler Clementi Foundation that happened here at Neshaminy High school.

It was a great example of real life cyberbullying that happens and leads onto tragic results. Tyler’s mother and brother Jane and James Clementi talked about how cyberbullying is active and alive and does affect many people today.

Cyberbullying can take many forms such as, sending mean texts or threats, spreading rumors and posting hurtful images, getting personal and private photos from someone and spreading it around. All these ways and more can permanently damage someone. That can lead into depression, anxiety or even suicide. Only 1 in 10 teens tell their parents or a trusted adult on what’s happening. Parents and guardians should always check to see if their child is alright. Telling your child that it is good to talk about what is happening, can lead to a trusted relationship. Cyberbullying is a huge deal that many people do not look into.

Teachers as well can help make a safer environment for students. They should  talk to teens about cyberbullying, explaining it is not OK. Tell them that cyberbullying can lead into bad consequences. That they are not alone and should tell a trusted adult what is happening. Teaching kids that cyberbullying is unacceptable is the right way to go. They have made a project called the  http://www.day1campaign.com/ that lets you stand up and speak up for kids being affected by cyberbullying. It lets you join the group and become an up stander and help others.

Cyberbullying is a big issue that can be stopped by parents, teachers, trusted adults in schools, the community, sports team, workplaces, etc.