Cyberbullying:  Law and Policy

Penelope and Rosetta work together on the Kinseytown High yearbook.  They are usually friends, but have a heated disagreement over the artwork for the yearbook's cover.  During lunch period, Penelope sends a text message to Rosettta stating, "I'm so mad I can't even sit near you.  Leave me alone today."

This is not an example of cyberbullying because Rosetta is not being harassed, mistreated, or being made fun of.  The girls disagree, and Penelope simply states that she is angry and in no mood for Rosetta's company.  Although this may be hurtful to Rosetta, it is not cyberbullying.


Marla is a new student at school.  In the school computer lab, William sets up a page on MySpace called "Marla Go Home!"  Several students post derogatory messages about Maria's appearance, calling her a "slob" and a "loser."  Maria sees the page and leaves early.  She stays at home for several days.


This is an example of cyberbullying because Maria is being mistreated and being made fun of.  She is also being harassed.  Technology is being used here to "humiliate or hurt" Maria.  Because this cyberbullying took place on campus the school is responsible for disciplining the bullies and perhaps is also responsible for providing counseling for both Maria and her bullies.  At this point, I think the school might consider suspension for William and the other bullies.  The legal consequences will not be criminal since no law has been broken at this time.  However, Maria may have cause for a civil suit because of defamation.