Let’s stop the cyber bullies, says MSP

MSP Mary Fee is calling for more children and young people to be resilient towards cyber-bullying.

Making children and young people become more aware of the dangers of the internet and social media websites was top of the agenda for the Scottish Labour politician who spoke out recently to mark Safer Internet Day.

Encouraging parents to have more open debates with children around the advantages and disadvantages of the internet was another focus of the MSP’s discussions.

“Children and young people today are connecting with each other in a wide range of ways that were not available to any other generation before,” Mrs Fee said.

“As such, we need to e n c o u rage open conversations with young people about the dangers of the internet and social media.

“Too many children and young people are being exposed to bullying and pressures online resulting in serious implications on mental health and social stigma.”

She added: “The damaging and shocking increase in sexual offences committed by young people shows how we need a connected approach between Government, schools, parents, charities, youth organisations and – most importantly – social network companies to tackle the scourge of sharing private and intimate details between young people and so-called sexting.

“We need to be more proactive as a society to encourage young people to become more cyber-resilient and encourage them to have open conversations when they have been subject to cyber-bullying or harassment.”