Did you know a whopping 70% of internet users age 18 to 24 have experienced some sort of online harassment according to a Pew Research study? The study also found that young women experience severe online harassment at a much higher rate than their male counterparts.

Online harassment may include name-calling, sexist comments, bullying and even threats of physical harm. Online harassment also has real-life consequences. The person being harassed is at a higher risk for low self-esteem, for drug and alcohol use, they will be more likely to skip school or receive poor grades and are at a higher risk for health problems. The harasser may get in trouble with the law or with their school. In fact, anyone creating, sending or possessing any intimate pictures of someone under the age of 16 can be convicted of a child pornography felony even if the person themselves is under the age of 16.

What can you do to help protect young people in your life?

Speak up.
Even online we can speak up against sexist statements or jokes, as well as harassment and bullying.

Talk to your kids.
Start the conversation about this type of harassment as soon as kids start going online. Make sure they know the facts about posting online and that it’s safe to go to a trusted adult if something happens online that makes them uncomfortable.

Spread the word.
Make a New Year’s resolution to speak up about online harassment. Post helpful links for other parents on Facebook. Talk to your kids about how to be good online citizens.

Resources for parents:

StopBullying.gov

National Crime Prevention Council

Cyberbullying Research Center

Together, a safer community is within our grasp.  Join us!

The 100 Men Campaign was born out of the belief that men have a crucial role to play in the movement to end violence against women and girls. Through greater awareness of this issue and by advocating for violence prevention at the community level, men are becoming part of the solution in ending what has become one of the most significant social issues of our time.