The rise of social media has resulted in many new dangers for everyone in society, and a new report has shown just what teachers are going through in an age where technology reigns.
According to research carried out by the UK’s teacher’s union NASUWT, 40% of teachers say they have been attacked by parents over social media in the past year, marking a staggering 13% rise from last year’s figures.
Among the abuse that teachers are facing online include comments of a racist, sexist and homophobic nature, as well as offensive comments regarding their appearance and competence.
Even more concerning is the statistic regarding abuse of teachers by their students, which the study states has risen by almost 40% since last year.
The most common age of students discovered to be posting the offensive material was found to be 14 to 16 years.
NASUWT’s general secretary, Chris Keates branded the statistics as “deeply worrying”.
“Equally concerning is that it appears that more parents are the perpetrators of the abuse. The vile, insulting and personal comments are taking their toll on teachers’ health and wellbeing, and undermining their confidence to do their job,” he said.
Mr Keates added that many teachers admitted to worrying that they may be being abused online, but have been too afraid to investigate.
This report further underlines why we need to introduce stringent restrictions surrounding the use of social media.