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Cyber bullies
Remember that old childhood adage about sticks and stones? Times have changed, and conventional wisdom has proven that names can indeed hurt – even worse than physical blows. Though childhood is the traditional time for schoolyard bullies, it is during the teen years that the art of bullying is perfected. Gossip, pranks, notes and name calling become typical tactics used to intimidate and harass "outsiders." Technology has given bullies a new weapon in their arsenal, and unsuspecting teens receive electronic harassment, a silent persecution sent by e-mail, text messaging, cell phones and Web pages.
Learn about and teach your teenager about blocking software for e-mails and instant messaging. If your teen is receiving text messages, then you can contact your phone company and report the matter. If there is a Web site that contains inappropriate or defamatory information about your teen, then you need to contact the ISP responsible for hosting it. Contact your own Internet service provider. They may be able to assist.
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