Final Word

Abstract

Promising interventions are those which take a whole-school approach. Dealing with the impacts of cyberbullying needs to take a socio-ecological perspective which includes an effective whole-school approach. Many countries have developed and are implementing a range of initiatives to deal with cyberbullying. The need for international collaborations in dealing with cyberbullying and promoting best-practice programs and strategies is important. Excessive regulation of young people and the use of technology does not provide for the learning of the skills they need to function in the ‘real-world’ post school. Regulating technology or taking legal action will not change behaviours. Schools have a well-established duty of care to their students and staff. This extends beyond reasonable precautions against physical injury and into psychological injury. Professional Development needs to address the attitudes and perceptions towards both offline and online bullying as well as the skills required to use the technology in effective teaching and learning programs. Cyberbullying directed towards teachers is increasing due to the anonymity of some online sites. Individual staff members or even the school itself can be the target of inappropriate content. When developing policies and procedures in schools, cyberbullying of staff should also be recognised.