Jessica

“Money doesn’t buy you happiness…I suppose”

Is it a crime?

There isn’t a specific law against cyberbullying but cyberbullying does break lots of laws:

• Protection from Harassment Act 1997
• Communications Act 2003
• Malicious Communications Act 1988
• Public Order Act 1986
• Computer Misuse Act 1990
• Protection of Children Act 1978 (Section 1)

Sometimes young people are prosecuted for cyberbullying. The first person to be prosecuted for posting abuse online was an 18 year old girl and she got 3 months in youth custody after pleading guilty to harassment. So Jess is breaking the law by her behaviour and could get into trouble.

Are you a good friend online?

Because people are one step removed when they communicate online this seems to make it easier to start or join in with negative behaviour. People often say things online that they would never say to someone’s face.

Think about your own behaviour online – are you a good friend?

Have you ever?

• Liked a negative or abusive comment posted by someone else
• Sent on an abusive comment or image posted by someone else
• Justified posting or commenting negatively by saying “It was just a bit of fun” or “we were just having a laugh”
• You could take the are you a cyberbully quiz to find out if you are cyberbullying or if you are a good online friend.

Stop and think before you act

Bullying behaviour can have a huge impact on another person that lasts a life time, affecting confidence, relationships and life chances. If you have joined in with negative behaviour think about the following:

• Bullying is behaviour which you have the power to stop. It does not make you who you are.
• Is there something going on in your life which you are not happy about or which is making you feel sad or angry?
• Talk to someone about how you feel, don’t bottle it up and take it out on someone else.
• Causing pain and hurt in someone else won’t take your pain away.
• If you choose to be kind you may feel better about yourself.
• Work on building your own self-esteem and confidence.
• If you realise you have bullied someone, stop and say sorry.

More advice on how to stop bullying: How to stop bullying others

Support if your parents are separating

When parents separate it can a really difficult time for the whole family, and a stressful time for young people. If you’re finding it hard there is advice out there to help you. If you need to talk with someone, why not call Childline on 0800 1111 or visit their website.

Childline – Divorce and separation
Family Breakups