Many school social workers unequipped to tackle cyberbullying, survey says

By Staff Writer

A new study shows that almost half of social workers feel that they are unequipped to prevent cyberbullying.

Researchers from Temple University surveyed approximately 400 school social workers at K-12 institutions. While almost all respondents said that cyberbullying can be psychologically harmful for a child, about 45 percent said they do not have the proper resources to handle the problem. About four of every five educators thought that their school had an effective cyberbullying policy.

Temple professor Jonathan Singer, who led the study, said that the survey's results are concerning because social workers provide more crisis intervention services than any other faculty member. He added that ill-equipped schools may be found liable if a student is injured or inflicts self-harm as a result of school-related bullying.

The survey also revealed that cyberbullying was much more prevalent in middle schools than in elementary or high schools. Singer said that cyberbullying, unlike traditional bullying, which can be seen or heard, requires more diligence from educators. He recommended that schools establish training programs that educate students and faculty about the dangers of cyberbullying, how to detect it and how to intervene.

Problem teens who are cyberbullies may benefit from tough love. Parents and educators may consider taking away their internet or cell phone privileges until their behavior improves.