hhoj … lho
For those in the know, the letters above are not a random series of letters, they are part of the new “text messaging” code that has evolved as quickly as companies like Nokia and LGV and produce new cellular phones with text messaging capabilities. “HHOJ,” for example, means “Ha, ha, only joking,” “lho” means “laughing out loud.”
But not everyone is laughing these days when it comes to text messaging and other text and video based “cyber” gadgets. With these technologies come new threats to youth. One of the fastest growing is “cyberbullying” that allows youth to literally broadcast unkind messages-- and sometimes even more unkind images-- to everyone in their address book.
It’s not a trend unique to the United States. In fact, Australia and the United Kingdom have been ahead of the United States in experiencing the problem and have been among the first countries to form alliances with cell phone companies in finding ways to eradicate the problem. In this country, many schools have rushed to address the problem by passing policies prohibiting the use of cell phones during the school day and by passing general policies that address online and cell phone cyberbullying, even while students are outside of class.
As researchers continue to study the links between bullying victimization and depression, suicide, and even criminal activity, it’s important not to take the power that comes with these handy technologies for granted. If you’re a teacher or parent, you may want to consider incorporating a discussion about the importance of responsible use of cell phones, camera phones, Web blogs, Web sites, and e-mail. The articles and sites below will provide more information.
On the Web:
- Wired Safety: Online safety resource including information about cyberbullying and information about how to report cybercrime.
- Cyber Safety: Teacher and Parent resources for safe student use of the Internet
- Text messaging shorthand translator for parents and youth
- Parents Teachers Associations present Internet and Instant Messaging safety tips
- Kids Health presents information on Cyberbullying and Safe Surfing Tips for Teens
- Cyberbullying.ca (Canadian site devoted to the topic)
In the News:
- Bullying goes high tech in cyberspace (The Citizen's Voice, February 23, 2005)
- Teens online lingo leaves parents baffled (CNN, February 9, 2005)
- Cyberbullying worse than the real thing (The Inquirer, October 18, 2004)
- Mobile phone group launches anti SMS bullying campaign (ABC Science Online – Australia, February 6, 2005)
Page Updated: March 17, 2005
