There is a fairly new term which many kids are having to deal with.
It is called cyber-bullying.
Just like being bullied at school, there are kids who end up being bullied while on the internet.
This is a new phenomenon, but it's still fairly serious.
Most kids on their social networking sites or through chat clients have been bullied at one point in time.
Usually it's hurtful comments being directed towards them from anonymous people and even friends who do it.
There are some ways of limiting this type of behavior towards your child.
First of all, explain to your child that they shouldn't engage in it at all.
If there are hurtful things said, instruct your child to ignore it.
Many of these bullies enjoy seeing a person react to the statements.
Don't engage in it and it will most likely go away.
If the child gets into it, the bully will continue to do it to them over and over.
Have your child put social networking sites on private settings.
This means that only approved people can view and leave comments on the profile.
If there is bullying that is being done, it has to be one of the people who approved on the list.
You as a parent will be able to figure out who the person is much easier and to address the situation if need be.
Also the child can remove the person who is leaving the harsh comments off the friends list and not have to deal with the bully.
Be sure to teach your child to not talk to anonymous people online.
Very often these anonymous statements will be as cruel as possible.
Many times a cyber bully is the type that can't be a bully face to face.
Being able to talk behind a screen gives them the courage to say things that they could not do face to face.