Cyberbullying is a problem not just in the US but globally. Justin Patchin, Co-director of the Cyberbullying Research Center, joined European counterparts at the University of London Friday in talking about the issue. Patchin says the research in Europe is “consistent” with US research. Victims who are perceived as “different” are often the targets of cyberbullying.
The UW-Eau Claire professor says both victims and bullies experience low self-esteem, thoughts of suicide and problems at school.
Young bullies are dealing with negative examples from parents, reality TV and in politics, according to Patchin. “It’s perfectly appropriate for us to disagree but we have to treat each other with respect. I think our kids will feed off that relationship as well.”