HLieberman

First of all, don't fall prey to exaggerated fear. Many kids happily use social networks, and I think they're valuable in giving kids practice in social engagement, and not least, giving them a personally meaningful context for reading and writing. Don't flatly prohibit them. They're part of modern life. I would say, when she's ready, do it as an activity together with her. Use it as occasion to teach her positive ways of interacting. If she gets a hostile or suspicious message, teach her how to identify these and how to deal with them. When you're confident she can handle it on her own, relax the supervision. It's just like any other parent-child activity.

Yes, that's true. What's heartening to me is the courage of many kids who have started anti-bullying groups in their schools, gay-straight alliances, and other positive social movements. I don't consider that "policing", but just a way for kids to help set the direction of their own social groups. The message is stronger and more effective when it comes from kids themselves than from adults.

Bullying has existed for hundreds of years. I don't think it's gotten worse, but the ubiquity of social networks and phones means that kids can't always get away from it. The upside is that social support, help, and education are also only a click away, and available 24/7 as well.

I think violent video games do have a negative effect, but I do not support censorship. I think the key is to promote positive alternatives. I actually think the worst things on TV are not the violent cop shows (which many people can dissociate from reality), but the situation comedies and "reality" shows, where bullying and humor at the expense of others are shown as normal or positive.

Yes, I do feel this warrants research. The negative social consequences of bullying have now, as a result of research, been conclusively identified. Kids who are bullied (or who bully) do worse in school, have poorer health outcomes, and many other real consequences for our society. It needs to be addressed. Bullying is not "inevitable", or "normal" and anti-bullying efforts are not "whining".

I'm an old guy too, and I remember when attitudes were as you say. Attitudes are now changing, thankfully. If you survived bullying, congratulations. Many others weren't so lucky. Don't wish your misfortunes on others.