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Lesson

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Online Disinhibition and Cyberbullying

How does online disinhibition sometimes lead to cyberbullying?

Grade

11

Time

45 mins.
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Objectives

  • Define "online disinhibition" and describe how it can be both positive and negative.
  • Explain how anonymity, lag time, and lack of nonverbal cues all contribute to online disinhibition.
  • Analyze how online disinhibition can cause cyberbullying and brainstorm ways to counter it.

Vocabulary Show definitions

cyberbullying . online disinhibition effect
cyberbullying – using digital devices, sites, and apps to intimidate, harm, and upset someone
online disinhibition effect – when people behave differently online than they would in person
Standards
This lesson meets standards for Common Core ELA, ISTE, CASEL and AASL.
Lesson video
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Topics

Cyberbullying & Online Harms Digital Citizenship & Literacy
Standards
This lesson meets standards for Common Core ELA, ISTE, CASEL and AASL.

Hey there! We've updated our curriculum!

This lesson will be archived in December 2026. 

We've updated and expanded it into the lessons below.

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How can deepfakes cause harm, and why do they violate consent?
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Why is it easier to cross a line online than in person?
Activities:
Video

Get started with our improved Digital Literacy & Well-Being Curriculum today!

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Lesson Plan

45 mins.
© Common Sense Media. Lessons are shareable with attribution for noncommercial use only. No remixing permitted. View detailed license information at creativecommons.org. Lesson last updated:

What You’ll Need

Supplies
Blank paper

In Class

For Families

© Common Sense Media. Lessons are shareable with attribution for noncommercial use only. No remixing permitted. View detailed license information at creativecommons.org. Lesson last updated: