Minnesota, USA -July 22, 2011 - An alarming issue is on the rise: cyber bullying. According to the National Crime Prevention Council of the USA, more than half of American teens are affected by cyber bullying; undoubtedly this also indicates a rise in the rest of the world as well. The victims of these crimes are either bullied via text messages, e-mails, or social networking sites. The worst outcome is death of the victims; however, we must also realize that even the other effects are just as harmful and can even leave the victims feeling as if they are not human. We are faced with a dilemma; could training children on how to use electronic communication and the proper etiquette make a difference

Schools, parents, law enforcement, and other concerned individuals are searching for ways to reduce the incidences of cyber bullying. While some are crying out for there to be severe punishments for those engaging in these activities, others believe that children and teens do not know the proper ways of handling oneself in situations and do not understand the consequences of their actions, so they must be 'trained'. As much as both of these actions could reduce this dilemma, both ideas remain idle. Now, it is necessary for us to discover how to reach out to the children around us who are the bullies and the victims themselves.

TV networks like ABC Family are taking a proactive approach by opening the lines of communication between children and the parents through premiering the movie known as "Cyber Bully" on July 17; it shows the excitement of a teen girl, Taylor, after she is given her first personal computer. However, she faces torment that eventually leads to a suicide attempt. Just like Taylor's case, most victims do not open up to their parents about what is happening; it is up to us to discover the problem before it is too late. It is worth getting kids to sit down and watch this movie to either encourage them to open up about any bullying problems or understand the pain they could be causing others.

Some children may not realize that they are cyber bullying anyone. For instance, they may not understand how a message could be perceived -since it is not said in person for the others to hear the tone of the statement. For these situations, helping children understand etiquette of electronic communication could greatly improve the situations. Yet, there is another issue with this; who is qualified to teach this Surely it cannot be regular teachers in elementary and middle schools.

There are key signs that point to cyber bullying situations which adults can use to determine what is happening and if any children need to be approached.

If a child is a cyber-bullying victim, he or she will likely...

1)      Withdraw from friends and family and use the computer and other electronics less and less

2)      Appear to be agitated, nervous, angry, and depressed

3)      Avoid any conversation related to their electronic communications

4)      Stop going out with friends and fear going to school

If a child is a cyber-bully, he or she will likely...

1)      Try to hide internet activities by switching screens

2)      Laugh more than usual while using the computer or cellphone

3)      Use the computer at unusual hours of the night

4)      Not like to discuss what his or her activities are