Media coverage of social issues has a profound impact on how communities understand and address problems. Research and expert opinion suggest that certain trends in media coverage of bullying have the potential to do harm. This section offers help to journalists, bloggers, the entertainment creative community, and others who are developing content about bullying. What the Public Needs to Know ABOUT BULLYING •Although concern about it is growing, bullying isn’t an epidemic. In fact, national rates have decreased slightly in recent years. •Bullying does not cause suicide; it’s only one of many factors involved. •Bullying can affect any young person, but there are characteristics and circumstances that put certain youth at higher risk. •Each bullying incident is a complex interaction. While there might be one “ringleader,” the bystanders often are involved. •Cyberbullying is not nearly as common as people think. •Some prevention strategies seem to help, and researchers continue to learn about what works. •All fifty states have anti-bullying legislation. And, when bullying is based on a protected class and sufficiently serious, it can also be discriminatory harassment that violates federal law. •StopBullying.gov provides information on what bullying is, what cyberbullying is, who is at risk, and how you can prevent and respond to bullying. Media Guidelines for Bullying Prevention
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