An introduction to cyberbullying

Despite cyberbullying being regarded as a new form of bullying, it is also contextualized within the broader bullying literature. This chapter will provide a review of the literature concerning cyberbullying, to offer insight into its conceptualization. The chapter will discuss the development of digital technologies and opportunities to communicate online. Then, considering this new form of bullying, the chapter discusses and explores the definitional aspect of cyberbullying, particularly addressing definitional issues when applying traditional bullying criteria. The chapter will then review unique features of cyberbullying, and how they fit in within the overall definition of bullying. Finally, the chapter will explore the different types of cyberbullying, the prevalence of cyberbullying in England and discuss the impact such involvement can have on those involved.