In the age where trolling and cyberbullying are being spoken about across most platforms, most people are unaware of how to go about preventing it. Some also feel that using any form of parental monitoring software is equivalent to spying on their children. As parents, we should make our children aware of the risks of the internet.
Trolling Versus Cyberbullying
Though trolling and cyberbullying are two different terms for the same type of behaviors, they are not the same.
Trolling is making argumentative statements or offensive statements to grab attention. It is not targeted to any one person or group. It is often done to keep oneself entertained.
Cyberbullying, on the other hand, is aimed at targeting one person or group to cause harm.
Parental monitoring software can help children from online bullies and trolls.
“Avoid feeding trolls.”
Not paying attention to trolls is the easiest way, but the story does not end there. Some people believe that if trolls are ignored, they will get something else to troll about. Trolls either want to be part of the attention or want to have some fun. If they are not satisfied, they move on to some other topic or person. It is a way they find to keep themselves entertained.
Completely ignoring trolls is not the best option. It makes people uncomfortable, and therefore, they need to be controlled. The internet is used to make people come closer, but a troll can make that uncomfortable, especially when the person being trolled is going through a bad phase in their lives and is looking for advice.
At times, cyberbullying of a specific person is linked to trolling. But unlike trolling, which does not mean to cause any harm, cyberbullying tries to harm their targets, especially if they have failed earlier.
The need of the hour for all parents should be to teach their kids to defend themselves online.
Ignoring trolls and cyberbullies is not enough to keep children safe. They must also be taught to stand up for themselves.
One way that children can protect themselves from trolls and cyberbullies on sites that they visit is by reporting them. Children must also be made aware of how to take screenshots. These can serve as proof in case of reporting trolls and cyberbullies.
Children should be made aware that even if they are not victims of trolling or cyberbullying but are a witness to it, they must report it. They must also take screenshots to use as evidence.
Sometimes the best way to avoid trolling and cyberbullying is by just logging off and walking off. This has its advantages as children can move out and enjoy what nature has to offer.
Parental control app for android is one way by which parents can have an idea of their child’s online activities. At the least, the children will not feel like their children are spying on them.
