Topic > The Effects of Social Media - 1007

Bullying was a thing of the past when lunch money was taken and students were verbally aggressive with students displaying shy characteristics. The latest way to communicate is through social networks, creating a more aggressive and invisible way for bullies to attack innocents. Social media has honestly created an open invitation for bullying. “Social media is the collection of online communication channels dedicated to community-based input, interaction, content sharing and collaboration” (WhatIs.com). This is how people communicate with friends, family, co-workers, and classmates. Special events such as anniversaries, parties and holidays are advertised and sent on social media as group messages. Friends and family can stay in touch with each other 24 hours a day. Social media is a unique way of communicating with people all over the world. Children are more prone to becoming bullies or being bullied. Parents do not control the things their children post about themselves and others. Different social media have been created for “platforms such as text messaging, social networks (such as Facebook), email, instant messaging, furthermore they “seem to lack adequate social skills that help them make friends in a positive way” (Carducci 229) . They have low self-esteem and are unsure of themselves. Most bullies “alter their identity so that the target does not know who they are antagonizing” (Carducci 237). This is a way to keep your identity hidden. There are no repercussions a bully will face if he remains anonymous and hides behind his cruel words. Boundaries are crossed “through social media, including insults, teasing, threats, and spreading rumors” (Rowell 18). Secrets shared in confidence are broadcast on social media. When friendships grow apart, people turn to social media to vent their best friend's filth