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Marketing-Communication

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11 views

Marketing-Communication

Uploaded by

yasuowibu21
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Introduction

In today’s technology-driven world, cyberbullying has emerged as a significant


issue in the United States, where digital interactions are a core part of daily life.
Social media, messaging apps, and online gaming provide vast opportunities for
connection but also create spaces where online harassment—known as
cyberbullying—can flourish.

Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying takes place in virtual spaces, making it


difficult for victims to avoid and even harder to prevent. It includes harmful
actions such as spreading false information, sending threatening messages, and
posting humiliating content. The anonymity provided online often emboldens
perpetrators, turning the internet into a space where aggression can go
unchecked.

Cyberbullying affects people across age groups, but teenagers are particularly
vulnerable due to their high online presence. Studies show that the psychological
toll on victims can be severe, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal
thoughts. The impact goes beyond individuals, affecting families and
communities, and has become a growing concern for educators, mental health
experts, and lawmakers.

As high-profile cases bring attention to its devastating effects, addressing


cyberbullying has become crucial for creating a safer, more responsible online
world. Cyberbullying isn’t just a personal struggle; it’s a societal challenge in an
increasingly digital age.

Evidence and Research

Recent studies provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and


impact of cyberbullying in the U.S.:
• Prevalence: According to the Cyberbullying Research Center’s 2023
study, approximately 55% of middle and high school students aged 13 to 17
reported experiencing cyberbullying at some point in their lifetimes, with about
27% having been cyberbullied in the 30 days prior to the survey. (Cyberbullying
Research Center)
• Demographics: The same study found that adolescent girls are more
likely to have experienced cyberbullying in their lifetimes (59.2%) compared to
boys (49.5%). In the 30 days prior to the survey, 28.6% of girls and 24.2% of boys
reported recent cyberbullying experiences. (Cyberbullying Research Center)
• Psychological and Social Effects: The Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) reported in 2023 that frequent social media use is
associated with higher rates of bullying victimization, persistent feelings of
sadness or hopelessness, and increased suicide risk among high school
students. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• High-Profile Cases: Elliston Berry Case (2023)
In October 2023, 14-year-old high school student Elliston Berry from Aledo, Texas,
became a victim of cyberbullying when a classmate used artificial intelligence to
create explicit deepfake images of her. These manipulated images were
circulated among students via social media platforms, causing significant
emotional distress for Elliston and her family. (WFAA / The Baltimore Post / Tech
Story)

In response to this incident, Elliston and her mother, Anna McAdams, advocated
for stronger legal protections against such forms of cyber exploitation. Their
efforts contributed to the introduction of the “Take It Down Act,” a bipartisan bill
aimed at criminalizing the distribution of non-consensual AI-generated explicit
images and mandating their prompt removal from online platforms. (U.S. SENATE
COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, & TRANSPORTATION)

Rationale for Selection

We chose to focus on cyberbullying due to its increasing prevalence and the


serious impact it has on individuals, particularly young people. With the growing
amount of time teens spend online, opportunities for bullying on social media,
messaging apps, and gaming platforms have expanded, making cyberbullying
not just a personal issue but a public health concern that demands attention.

Cyberbullying places a significant psychological burden on victims, often leading


to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The constant accessibility of digital
platforms means that harassment can follow victims even into their homes,
intensifying feelings of isolation. This problem extends beyond individuals to
affect families, schools, and communities, creating hostile environments and
impacting academic performance and well-being.

Recent high-profile cases have underscored the need for stronger protections
and mental health resources. We believe that now is a crucial time to address
cyberbullying through increased awareness, preventive measures, and support
systems. As digital platforms continue to shape our interactions, it’s essential to
ensure these spaces are safe and positive. Our goal is to deepen understanding
of cyberbullying, advocate for solutions, and help create a safer digital world for
everyone.

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