The internet is a useful place with help for homework, ways to connect with friends, and much more! However, there is potentially a dark side to it: people who are seeking to torment others. This is called cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is similar to standard bullying, but it takes place using modern technology. According to DoSomething.org, nearly 43% of kids have been cyberbullied and 25% have had it happen to them more than once. As hsccs.org states, victims are up to 90% more likely than others to harm themselves. So why does this happen?

“They bully people because they think it makes them feel good by putting people down,” said Jasmine S.

Cyberbullying can take place in various parts of social media like Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Kik and more.  According to www.socialmediaexaminer.com, out of all the social media websites, Facebook has been rated the #1 online social media site where it has taken place. The challenge is finding a solution.

Cyberbullying is prominent, and it is nearly impossible to deal with it alone. “Help will always be around you, and if you keep it to yourself you might have to take the blame [as well].” says Nerija M. Ignoring it can make a situation worse, and it may even cause the victim to respond by doing something drastic.

“Nobody should have to go through something like that alone,”  Taylor D. said.
According to helpguide.org, one of the greatest things someone can do when this happens is to tell a trusted, mature adult. Another method is to block the predator online, and keep the messages they sent as evidence. A victim can stand up for himself. What not to do, however, is to believe what the bully says. Though their words may be damaging, their intention may be to just have a little fun or to make themselves feel better. “[People bully others] to feel better about themselves, or to demonstrate how superior they are.” states Daria S.