[Feb 20] Cyberbullying and Youth: What are we really talking about?

RSVP: http://goo.gl/V6Ugw8

With unprecedented access to technology, young people today are carrying the internet in their pockets and communicating with their peers more than ever before. But what happens when their behaviour turns negative and schoolyard bullying moves online? Educators report that cyberbullying is as big an issue as smoking and drugs among youth today. Anonymity and peer pressure can fuel negative online behaviour with severe and often tragic consequences. But where does this behaviour start? What are the various forms and consequences of cyberbullying? Most importantly, what are we supposed to do about it?

Join YWCA Metro Vancouver and HootSuite for an interactive panel discussion with a group of experts, who will answer these questions. In honour of Pink Shirt Day, a national day of bullying prevention, we will explore themes surrounding cyberbullying and discuss solutions for parents, teachers, youth workers and peers to help mitigate the harmful impacts cyberbullying has on youth today.

Panelists:

  • Sioned Dyer, Mentorship Coordinator, Youth Facilitator. YWCA Metro Vancouver
  •  Jesse Miller, Founder, Mediated Reality
  • Sgt. Mathias Van Laer, E Division RCMP Integrated Child Exploitation
  • Jennifer Shapka, PhD, Department of Educational & Counselling Psychology with a focus on adolescent behaviour
  • Chris Bolton, National Youth Ambassador at the Next Big Thing Foundation

Agenda

5:30 – 6:00: Registration

6:00 – 6:30: Mingling / networking / refreshments

6:30 – 7:30: Panel Discussion and Q&A

7:30 : Wrap up

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