By ISLA CHAN and FARRAH PARK
Not long ago, a Jericho gossip account “jericho.hs.tea” caught the attention of the High School’s students. This is just one of the many instances when Jericho students were involved in cyberbullying.
Sophomore Alex D. was a victim of cyberbullying when a video was circulated about her. The video shows multiple photos of students with a filtered voiceover that rudely comments on each student. Fortunately, Alex D. found this amusing. “I honestly think stuff like that is out of boredom and wanting to kind of stir the pot,” she said.
Often cyberbullying can be attributed to the anonymity of online communication. Guidance counselor Ms. Grebstein said, “I think being anonymous behind a screen, people feel like they think it’s funny.”
Guidance counselor Ms. Grebstein encourages students to rise above negative gossip. She said, “Take the higher road, separate yourself and surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself.”
Ms. Grebstein believes the method “THINK” can help students reduce gossip and rumors between peers. Using this method, students ask themselves: Is it true, helpful, inspiring, necessary and kind?
Reminding ourselves that bullying is detrimental can allow us to think before our actions. Guidance counselor Mr. Di Wu said, “We need more allies. People usually like to be by-standers, and they like to watch the drama unfold.”
There are ways to be an up-stander to cyberbullying and to spread awareness. This can have a big impact on the victim and be greatly appreciated.
Cyberbullying causes negativity for all involved. Creating gossip accounts to cyberbully is harmful because of how damaging it can be.