Forwarding hurts too: cyberbullying
Big idea: what you forward and repeat, you are also saying.
The story in short
A clip of a classmate, Naveen, stammering in an online quiz went round the “Class 8B Masti” group with laughing emojis. Bunny laughed, forwarded it and once mimicked the mocking nickname. Mitthu learned it, and shouted it in front of Naveen and his mother. Riya pointed out that Mitthu only repeats what he hears often. Golu uncle explained that a joke spreads because many people each do one small thing. Bunny deleted his forward, asked the group to stop, and apologised to Naveen in person.
The idea
- Cyberbullying: using messages, posts or videos to mock, embarrass or target a real person.
- Bystander effect: each small forward or laugh still adds to the harm, even if you didn’t start it.
- Screenshots last: deleting a message doesn’t delete the copies others already saved.
- Digital empathy: thinking about the real person behind every post.
- Two questions before you forward: Would I say this to their face? Would I want this done to me?
In real life
AI tools can now make fake, embarrassing photos or videos of real classmates in seconds. Sharing them is bullying too, and morphed images can be a crime. Don’t forward, report it on the platform, and tell a trusted adult or teacher. Children can also call Childline on 1098.
Remember: A joke at someone else’s expense doesn’t stay small just because you only forwarded it.
Check yourself
A funny-but-mean video of a classmate is going round your group. What's the best thing to do?
Bunny only forwarded the clip once. Was he responsible?
Someone makes an AI-edited photo of a classmate to embarrass them. What should you do?
Why doesn't deleting your forward fully undo the harm?
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