Justice system, schools must fight cyber-bullying

Cyberbullying is "any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or electronically." The internet is a huge part of daily life for juveniles and can have serious negative ramifications. Laws against cyberbullying exist.

In Illinois, if cyberbullying is not dealt with by the school but by the juvenile justice system, it can be considered a misdemeanor. Cyberbullying is considered a misdemeanor in instances where a victim fears for their life or is being repeatedly harassed. Routine Activities Theory states that juveniles engage in criminal delinquency when three conditions are present: lack of suitable guardians, a motivated offender and a suitable target. This theory is applicable to cyberbullying.

In addition to this theory, cyberbullying can be considered a product of unaddressed strain (General Strain Theory). In order to address this issue before it can escalate to the status of misdemeanor or felony, it is necessary that the juvenile justice system work closely with the education community.

Courtenay Elizabeth Hart

Wheaton