Search for a specific topic or author you're looking for

"Cyberbullying In America" By: Rashmi Surineni _________________ Introduction Nearly half of teens and adults in the US have experienced at least one form of online harassment. Name-calling, false rumors, and physical threats are only a few of the many types of cyberbullying inflicted upon victims whose mental and emotional health suffered greatly as a result. Victims often report increased rates of anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, isolation, anger, and even stress-related headaches. In the most severe cases, cyberbullying has been linked to self-harm and suicidal thoughts and actions, highlighting the severe damage and dangers of online harassment. Analysis What actions have been taken to protect the digital population from such atrocities? While no single federal law specifically addresses cyberbullying, all 50 states in the U.S. have laws or policies that cover electronic forms of harassment and bullying. However, these laws vary from state to state. In Tennessee, the words harassment, intimidation, or bullying is legally defined as any communication that maliciously intends to be a threat of harm to the victim, and that a reasonable person would perceive the communication to be a threat of harm (Tennessee Department of Education, n.d.). Therefore, the phrase “cyberbullying” simply means this form of bullying is undertaken through the use of electronic devices. In response to the harmful the effects of cyberbullying in schools, including interference with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, Tennessee law has specific penalties in place, especially for minors. In Tennessee, cyberbullying is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, which falls under the same misdemeanor classification as harassment (Tennessee Department of Education, n.d.). A new law in Tennessee, effective July 1, 2025, mandates that minors found guilty of cyberbullying in juvenile court will receive a one year suspension of driving privileges. Convicted adults can face up to a year in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. If the offense involves stalking, it can be elevated to a Class E felony, with a potential prison sentence of one to six years and a fine of up to $3,000. With such protective laws in place, it is clear that cyberbullying is a serious matter and a multi-faceted approach is essential to combat the related harms in order to maintain a safe, welcoming digital population. Conclusion To conclude, cyberbullying in the U.S. remains a significant challenge resulting in severe mental and emotional consequences for victims. In response, stringent state laws are in place, such as those of Tennessee, that provide legal recourse and penalties. Ultimately, through cohesive education and the enforcement of cyberbullying violations, the digital environment can be a safe, respectful place where every member is free to thrive for years to come. Bibliography Tennessee bullying, harassment, cyber-bullying laws title 49 education. (n.d.). https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/safety/bully_harass_cyber-bullying_laws.pdf Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (ASPA). (2023, May 17). Tennessee anti-bullying laws & policies. StopBullying.gov. https://www.stopbullying.gov/resources/laws/tennessee comments debug Commenting Forum Please be respectful and constructive Please be respectful and constructive Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Editorial Board Position Application Thank you for expressing your interest in making youth opinions on society more public! There are 2 positions available to be filled: 1.) Publicist/Newsletter Editor (2 positions) This position mainly revolves around our social media image and branding. You'll be in charge of making our Facebook and Instagram posts, mitigating our online commenting forum, and updating the technical and design aspects on the website. You will also handle any inquires received whether through our primary email or our social media as well as designing our monthly newsletter. 2.) Outreach Coordinator (Legal Journalist) This position is quite exciting! You'll be placed in the shoes of a real life journalist. In this position you're tasked with reaching out to legal and public service oriented professionals across Tennessee and essentially interviewing them on their position and aspects about their career. Your interviews will be posted on our official website to serve as a unique way for aspiring high schooler in the public service area to grasp a better understanding of what their interests looks like in action. If you enjoy talking with others then this position might be for you! First name* Last name What is your grade level?* What school do you attend?* Please input your email. This is our primary method of contacting you for a brief interview (get to know you) so please put in a reliable email!* Please select the position you'll be applying for!* Publicist/Newsletter Editor Outreach Coordinator (Legal Journalist) If you are selected for your position, you will be required to write a piece for this publication at some point. Please check "yes" if you understand and will comply with this rule.* Yes, I understand Upload a document of any WRITING and/or public policy based activities, clubs, awards, projects, or anything of that matter that are meaningful to you. The amount of awards or activities you have won or completed will NOT affect our selection process.* Upload File Submit