Suicide and MySpace

Barbara Pytel, Paulline Larson Photography

Posted by
Barbara Pytel
Jun 15, 2007

MySpace....Again

More controversy about MySpace and the abuse surrounding the website. There are numerous complaints about nudity and promiscuity on the website. Sexual predators see the site as a catalog for new victims and young teens feel safe because they are using their computer in the safety of their own home. But, something went very wrong in Kentucky.

Threatening Postings

Someone left a very threatening anonymous message to Rachael Neblett. "I'm going to beat you up. Oh, and by the way, I'm not going to put you in the hospital. I'm going to put you in the morgue." [Daarel Burnette II, courier-journal.com, April 29, 2007] Three weeks later, Rachael shot herself in the chest and died. This leaves everyone wondering if the messages were the cause or not.

Death Threats

Unfortunantely, death threats are becoming common on MySpace. Students don't realize that words through the internet are just as threatening as those said in person. Students that would never take a gun, point it at someone, and threaten to kill them in person think nothing of doing so on MySpace. There is a disconnect from reality. However, to the person receiving the threatening note, it is very real.

Conduct Codes

Schools are now discussing cyber-bullying and making changes to student handbooks. Both girls and boys are harassing peers in school with electronic devices and all evening with computers. Some feel there is no way to stop the threats other than suicide.

Read previous articles on Educational Issues.