Is Cyberbullying as Common as Portrayed in Movies?
Tedious and gory depictions of cyberbullying in pop entertainment movies and TV shows may overstate its prevalence and intensity. While instances of bullying are undoubtedly serious and impactful, particularly among young individuals who spend numerous hours online, the reality doesn't align completely with the dramatized narratives often seen on screen.
The Reality of Bullying
According to my son's experience, which dates back to 2007, bullying can often be more subtle than what is portrayed in vulgar entertainment media. An example from his youth involves a boy named Devin who wanted to control the activities on the playground, particularly dictating what he and his friends, including my son and another boy, should do. Devin threatened that if they didn't follow his demands, he would report them to the teachers. Due to the fear of getting in trouble, my son and the other boy complied with Devin's wishes.
As a parent, I taught my son how to counteract such manipulative tactics. By saying, "Okay Devin, let's go to the office. I'll help you tell on us. I want you to tell on us. Come on Devin, let's go right now!" the boy effectively defused the situation. Devin's power dissipated immediately, and the threat vanished.
It's important to note that while instances of bullying do occur—often in more subtle forms—they are not as pervasive or severe as those depicted in movies. The exaggerated portrayals in media can create a false sense of reality for viewers.
Real-Life vs. Media Depiction
Those scenes from tawdry, lowbrow movies and videos on YouTube are far from accurate. They are nothing but fabrications. While there may be isolated incidents of bullying, they are by no means as common as portrayed in movies. If someone tells you otherwise, they are1 lying to you.
It's crucial to internalize this mantra: 'Television and movies aren’t a good source of information unless one is watching a documentary.' This maxim underscores the fact that entertainment media is designed to engage, shock, and entertain, not necessarily to provide accurate information about real-world issues.
Conclusion
The portrayal of cyberbullying in entertainment media can be misleading and does not reflect the true nature of bullying in real life. While schools, law enforcement, and community programs continue to address this serious issue, it's essential to approach such topics with a critical eye and not solely rely on cinematic depictions. By recognizing the differences between real-life experiences and media portrayals, we can better support those affected by bullying and promote a safer online environment.