Are Social Networking Sites Like FaceBook, Twitter and MySpace Making Your Teen Depressed?

From: MomLogic website

Admit it. You can't stop. Morning, noon, night -- you're on Facebook. Now new research says excessive FBing (FaceBooking) may lead to anxiety and depression -- especially if you are a teenage girl.

Researchers at Stony Brook University in New York have found that too much Facebook usage leaves teen girls more prone to angst.

The study, recently published in The Journal of Adolescence, found that teen girls who talked with their friends online had significantly higher levels of depression. One of the study's authors, psychology professor Dr. Joanne Davila, says "Texting, instant messaging and social networking make it very easy for adolescents to become even more anxious, which can lead to depression."

At issue is that social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace allow young girls to harp on their issues - over and over again ad nauseam The study says this caused the participants to get stuck obsessing over a particular emotional setback, unable to move forward.

But isn't this all part of growing up -- especially for teen girls? Obsessing over a crush or an issue at school is part of life -- right? We all remember talking on the phone for hours about that boy in math class, agonizing when he asked Jennifer to the dance instead of us. Dr. Davila concedes that excessive commiseration is nothing new, but points out that it's the amount of the discussion that leads to the feelings of depression. She says, "[The girls] often don't realize that excessive talking is actually making them feel worse."

Is this something we moms should be concerned about? Momlogic spoke to Dr. Lisa Boesky, psychologist and author of When to Worry: How to Tell if Your Teen Needs Help & What to Do About It for guidance.

"We need to be very careful about the conclusions we draw from this study," Dr. Boesky says. "Close friendships -- and talking about your problems with friends -- can be very helpful for teenage girls. There may be some girls who have other risk factors for depression and obsessing over their problems makes them feel worse." She continues: "This is a small study of mostly Caucasian 13-year-olds.

Friendships among teen girls, how they talk about their problems, and the manner in which today's technologically savvy teens communicate with each other is complex and more research is needed before we can apply these findings to adolescents as a whole."

If you DO think your teen is depressed, Dr. Lisa says to be on the lookout for the following signs and symptoms:

• Sadness, irritability, or having a short fuse
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Moves more slowly or appears more restless than usual
• Repeated complaints of being tired, having no energy or aches/pains
• Always criticizing herself, pre-occupied with past mistakes and failures
• Distracted or forgetful
• Likes music, books or poetry with themes of death or destruction
• Has talked about wanting to be dead or being "unable to take it anymore"

If your teen has displayed several of the above symptoms for two weeks or more (especially if their schooling, relationships or family life are being affected), it is time to seek out a mental health professional who specializes in adolescents, says Dr. Boesky.

"Your teen may or may not be depressed -- but you need to find out what is underlying their mood/behavior changes so you know what steps to take to help them," she says. "Any talk of suicide should be taken seriously and responded to immediately. Fortunately, most teens get bummed out or upset for a few days and then move on." However, some teens show no signs of suicidal thoughts or planning. They may go weeks and months without speaking a word to anyone, not even their closests friends, then one day, it is too late.

Today's teens have more pressures on them than we, as teens, could have ever imagined. The most important "thing" a parent can provide their teen is love, caring and concern. Make time to talk to your teen each day. Ask them how their day went, and really listen. Engage in conversation with them, without being "hip", but on their level. Remind them that you, too have been a teen, even though it is hard for them to believe. If you are comfortable sharing a story from your teenage years, and it pertains to the topic, do so. It will help your teen identify that you honestly do connect with their pressures.

I find my daughter likes to have our talks right after school. She grabs a snack, and we sit in the family room and talk for about an hour and a half. I do not have any time limit on the talks, they usually just run that long. You will find out more about your teen and she just may find out something about you, as well. ~SpoiledMom

Does your teen spend too much time on the social networking sites? Phone texting too much? Are you concerned? Do you use parental controls on the Internet and/or phone? What plans have you found that work?

Courtesy: momlogic

Back to School Series: Banishing Mommy Guilt--Stop It Before It Starts

It's that time of year again. The time when the kids are half excited, half discouraged, and at times, so are we moms.

Excited because it may be our child's first day of school, first day of middle school, first day of high school, or even first year of college. Yet, we can also say we are saddened at the very same moment. It is a time of whirlwind emotions, and we moms are suddenly launched into full throttle mode.

Yes, it is "Back To School Time". A time of organizing, and scheduling, as well as a flurry of shopping, and emotions.

As women, we play so many different roles--wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend, employee--there is no wonder we may find it hard not to beat ourselves up if something slips. We have placed the title of "SuperMom" upon ourselves. When things do not appear as super, we tend to take it not so super, finding only ourselves to blame. The fact is, no one is to blame.

We need only to take a breath and realize, a slip up is okay. No one is perfect. I am sure if someone asked your child if you were perfect, however, he or she would say, "Yes!"

Mommy Guilt is self explanatory, as it is guilt we as mother's place upon ourselves. No one else, only us.

It's a hectic world with a go-go lifestyle for many moms today. Most of us barely have time to sleep, much less slow down to enjoy life.

It is imperative as Moms, that we not allow the everyday stresses of life sneak in and suddenly sabotage our sanity nor all the hard work and effort we put into our families.

The following are simple steps to stop guilt from taking over and solutions to help you take control of your life.

• Talk About It

When you blame yourself for not having time to volunteer at your child's school, talk to your husband or a friend. Getting your feelings out in the open can keep you from finding fault with yourself. Talking openly also helps to put into perspective what you may find as a major task or set back may not be as major as it appears. During times of stress, we tend to over-react to the smallest of things. I, myself, am guilty of this. By talking to a good friend, or family member, and getting whatever is stressing me out in the open, I can take the time to rationalize--and then, react appropriately. Everyone needs a lifeline--that closest friend, husband, sister, brother, etc.,--to openly discuss issues and bounce ideas off of. Remember to be that lifeline to someone else as well.

• Banish Guilt Trips

If someone tries to make you feel bad, stand up for yourself. If your stay-at-home sister says, "I can't believe your kids are home alone after school", tell her "You do it differently, but this works for us."

• Pep Yourself Up

Focus on your achievements, not your perceived failures. Instead of berating yourself for serving fast food, tell yourself, "Most nights, I make nutritious meals that my family loves." There is nothing wrong with allowing a "shortcut meal" so that you may have a few extra minutes to spend with your husband, your children, or on yourself, for that matter. As long as dinner is served and the family eats together, that is quality time well spent, and therefore, goal achieved.

A great amount of stress over a long period of time can cause a host of health problems from ulcers to hair loss to depression and free-floating anxiety. Give yourself a break everyday - even if it's just for a few minutes. Take some time for a walk or jog if your schedule permits. Even a few moments with a cup of tea can get you recharged for the next task.

You need a schedule - a sequence of your chores for the day - every day. Make a list of what has to be done that day, what can wait until tomorrow and what can wait until it gets done. Focus your energy on those things that must be done and done by you. Eliminate the unnecessary chores du jour and eliminate a little stress each day, every day.

Have too much on your plate at the moment? When the fundraiser events coordinator at your child's school calls and asks you to run a booth at the yearly "Harvest Fair", politely decline. It is acceptable and okay to say 'no'. It's especially okay for busy, overworked, stressed out moms.

Choose those activities that are most important to you to take on.

If the "Harvest Fair" is something that you enjoy participating in with your child, rearrange other appointments or engagements that you may have already planned, or plan around the school function as to not be stressed the weekend of the event.

Also, it is more than appropriate to make a donation to the school--that is befitting to your budget -- in lieu of participating in school fundraisers. You would be surprised to know how many other parents dread those brochures arriving home in their child's folder.

School's tempt the children with "prizes" of stuffed bears, plastic water bottles, and high end electronics to persuade them to sell items for the school fundraisers. I have always opted not to participate in fundraising. The schools discourage door to door sales--a positive--yet, that leaves family, friends, and co-workers.

I have always viewed school fundraising as a "parental task". As I am a stay at home mom, I do not have the resource of other adults in the workplace to push a sale upon, nor would I feel comfortable asking anyone to purchase a $13 can of peanuts during a time such as now, when the economy is affecting everyone. Many companies frown upon employees who bring in the fundraising brochures and use workplace as a sales area. Other companies have stricter policies in place that prohibit fundraiser sales altogether.

While I believe that schools do need the help of the community and especially the parents, I have opted to make a private donation to my children's school then treat my kids to an after school trip to our local "drive-in" eatery for milk shakes, ice cream or other treat. In the end, we all win.

Last, but certainly not least, take a moment each day, preferably in the mornings, to pray, meditate, or read an affirmation. Doing something positive before you begin each day helps set the tone for your day, and give you a positive reassurance, which will also resonate onto your children.

Do you find yourself bogged down with Mommy Guilt? What are some tips you have implemented into your life on how to cope with the guilt? Let me know!

Chima Benson Leaves Big Brother 11: The Inside Dish With Ross Mathews

Ross Mathews, host of "The Inside Dish With Ross Mathews",
with Chima Simone Benson, former Big Brother 11 Houseguest.

Inside Dish host Ross Mathews and producer Ryan MacDonald, dish about the shocking departure of Big Brother 11 Houseguest Chima Benson. see video below

Due to Chima's expulsion by Big Brother Producers, she will not be allowed to partake in any interviews nor discuss her involvement with the show. Chima has also been banned from any future employment/involvement with any and all Viacom/CBS owned/related entities.








video source:
The Insider: The Inside Dish with Ross Mathews

Chima Benson Evicted By Big Brother 11 Producers--Releases E-Mail: "I Quit, I Was Not Evicted"-- Plus, CBS Early Show Video

The OmaRosa of Big Brother Get's "Fired" By Producers

It seems as if nothing can make this thirty something single woman happy. Her very own grandmother stated on Thursday's episode that Chima would not even pronounce her name the correct way. Chima's grandmother explained the correct pronunciation is "Ch"-ima, but her granddaughter insists on pronouncing it "Sh"ima. Benson's grandmother did not seem too pleased with her granddaughters antics so far in the game, and this was before the production eviction.

The houseguests were given an announcement two weeks ago that America would vote for a houseguest to receive a special mystery power-known as the Coup D'etat. Benson made several threats that if the special power was used during her HOH reign, she would tear the house apart and threatened to make a scene during the live show.
The special power was the chance for another houseguest to overthrow the HOH's nominations, keeping only the HOH and Power of Veto holder safe from nomination of the Coup D'etat holder. Benson repeatedly mentioned her threats to all houseguests and on the live feeds, as well on Showtime 2's Big Brother After Dark.

CBS Production took her threats so seriously, that the always "live" Thursday eviction show had to be pre-taped ahead in the day, in case of a disastrous scenario on behalf of Benson. Therefore cheating the loyal viewers of the live show. One may argue that it was taped "live", however, "live" is "live" and we got pre-recorded. On top of that, viewers were not made aware of any difference. However, live feed viewers and true Big Brother fans knew something was askew.

By taping the show ahead of time, CBS Production decided to err on the side of safety, or as Benson saw it, they bowed down to her and showed her that she, indeed, held the upper hand.

For the third time in 11 seasons, CBS has to remove a houseguest from the Big Brother House

Video from Monday 8.17.09, CBS's The Early Morning Show


Fast forward to early Sunday morning around 11pm PST, when the antics began. Some of which were caught on the live feeds as well as on Big Brother After Dark which airs on Showtime 2.

Insiders say that senior production, as well as executive producer, Allison Grodner, was called in to defuse the situation. Benson was in full attack mode and screaming about the unfairness of the game, how she had been screwed out of her power by use of the Coup D'etat, and that the show was played by production to have her power removed, thus, leaving her nomination and nemesis, Russell, in the house.

CBS also reveals that Benson was informed that she would be paying for the mic pack that she destroyed by tossing it into the hot tub, as well as her stipend, and that she would not be joining the remaining players in the Jury House, nor be allowed to attend the finale. It has been also revealed that Benson may not enter into any contracts with Viacom,/CBS which also includes, Showtime, Comedy Central, Logo, BET, Spike, TV Land, Nick at Nite, Nickelodeon, Noggin, The N, Nick Jr., TEENick, MTV, VH1, MTV2, CMT, and Palladia.

Tuesday's episode will feature footage showing Chima's antics and the events that led up to her expulsion from the Big Brother House.

Benson was hoping to further her career in web-cast reporting, mainly celebrity reporting and journalism, by being cast on the summertime hit show. I see little hope for that now, unless there is someone looking for a new, improved, OmaRosa. Although, if the past serves as any indication, misery loves company, and scandal proves intriguing. Chima may get her just desserts by walking off the show, however, her break in contract is not favorable, and there is a list of networks she will not have an opportunity to work with no matter who "her friends" are.

Contrary to Chima's released email, if she had truly wanted to leave the house, would she not have packed her belongings? Instead, all of her clothing was being washed, as Benson and two other houseguests had taken the washing machine and dryer hostage, washing their clothing on the longest cycle, and at times, re-washing loads, and at times, one item loads. Their reasoning, if they couldn't have control of the house, they would control the washing machine. Great strategy

As my grandmother always said..."It all comes out in the wash.."

Goodbye, Chima. I can't say I am sorry to see you go. You were a big believer in "actions speak louder than words" and yours surely did. However at times, you played as if the loudest dog barking wins, and that title is yours as well.

Although a strong, beautiful woman who has overcome such tragic, brutal circumstances in your life--that I will not go into here--on the show, you were the epitome of weak, classless, oppression. The hate that you voiced was appalling and made me embarrassed for you. To come off so well educated, I could not once fathom why, or how, you would would speak such hatred. We viewers did not deserve your backhanded, racial, and politically biased remarks.

Being a very well educated Southern woman who is proud of my upbringing, class, political, and religious views, I did not appreciate your slanderous, racial remarks and criticisms of the Big Brother viewers. Were you not attempting to further your career by appearing on the show? Did you not once take into account the same viewers that you were critiquing could one day be a potential employer? If you think so poorly of the viewers of Big Brother, why did you invest your time to appear on the show?
It is unacceptable for a woman of your status to spew the hatred that you did, then have the audacity to call another a racist.

Chima, I pray that peace finds you and that someday you can truly be happy with what God blessed you with.

Here’s Chima’s full e-mail message:

“Yes, I did in fact quit the show, although there are reports on EW from CBS to the contrary. Big Brother would like everyone to believe I was kicked off for not following the rules, but I went to the producers repeatedly over the
past couple of days wanting to leave….wanting out of that house!
As crazy as that house is, the producers NEVER want the world to think or know that we houseguests DO LEAVE when it becomes futile to stay.

I lost faith in the show and my ability to remain committed to this game. All of the remaining housemates know I wanted to leave and that is why any conversation concerning me is cut in the live feed because they don’t want America to hear the truth about my voluntary departure.

Do you really believe that I would be expelled for tossing my microphone when past houseguests have only been kicked off for violence and threats of violence? You know better, as do I.

It’s better that I left. I did what was best for me in this game and that was to
leave. When I chose to play and play hard, the power I did earn was completely
usurped by a game piece never used before in this game and my HOH reign was
rendered useless. I have no regrets. As cliche’ as it sounds, until the public
is a part of a human pressure cooker, then the judgements should cease.

First, I would like to know which houseguests have left of their own accord, that we the viewers, or AMERICA, as Chima refers to us, that we do not know of? I know of the two other houseguests that were evicted per production due to acts of violence, and there is always the BB8 "penalty nom" when Jen ate while on slop. But even after the berating she received from Evel Dick, Jen stayed and stuck it out until her eviction by the house.
More importantly, Chima must not know that the Coup D'etat has been utilized in the game before. The power was not given to a houseguest by America, but was either "found" or "won" by a houseguest, who at the time of possessing the power, chose not to use it as it did or did not benefit their game play at the time. (as in the case of Boogie) So for Chima to say that her power was "usurped by a game piece never used before in this game" is a total misstatement. Chima must have never heard the catch phrase, "Expect the Unexpected". Big Brother is a game with twists and turns, as we all know. Did she not get the memo? If she had not been HOH, would she have had such harsh convictions? I think not. It is obvious that Chima is accustomed to being in charge, being the most desired, and not having anyone stand in her way. Unfortunately, that's now how it works in the Big Brother house. Chima's email is another attempt to place blame on anyone except herself. Chima evidently did not know as much about the game as she claimed. She also does not give "AMERICA" enough credit for knowing / suspecting that the are "certain powers that be" that have a slight of hand in the way the game is played. ~SM

I find it interesting that my personal attacks on Russell have been
highlighted, but his attacks on me pushed under a rug. Selective portrayals? I
think so. Russell did terrorize the house, especially the women in the house.
Why America constantly finds men attacking women okay, yet vilifies the woman
defending herself, will always confound me. But what’s done is done, now BB fans
can find a new woman to hate. I didn’t sign up for what I was exposed to and I
left gladly. It was the principle of the matter, the $500,000 prize be damned.
That’s all for now! Take Care…’”

--------------------
Chima's demeanor changed drastically when Russell did not accept her advances while he was HOH. Contrary to what anyone may say, in my opinion, this is what brought about Chima's demise and downfall. She could not handle a man that was not under her spell, a man that did not bow down to her, and as she said "stood toe to toe" with her. I am not condoning Russell's actions by no means, but the change in Chima was blatantly obvious. There were a few days of closeness between the two after the "whipped cream" incident, until the night Chima was in the HOH with Russell and he was not returning her semi-advances. Russell did not give Chima the attention she was desiring then we saw a Chima who was unaccustomed to not receiving attention from all. It was a downward spiral from there. Next came a change in power where Chima was defeated and could not cope with the uncertainty of her fate. For once, she did not have control and was not in a position to manipulate. The only arsenal she had left was to resort to childish and unbecoming antics, which led to her ultimate removal from the house.

We faithful Big Brother viewers, those with the live feeds that follow every moment available, know the truth. It is just a shame that Chima can not handle the truth.

email source: Big Brother 11: Exclusive chat with Chima Simone [Examiner]

video source: CBS The Early Morning Show

other sources:

Real Player SuperPass Big Brother live feeds,

Big Brother After Dark, Showtime 2

Big Brother 11 Deleted Scenes--Natalie Smells Funky

Natalie Martinez has been lucky enough to be on the "Have" winning team this season. However, most days, she appears as if she is a "have not".

It is hard to determine with this chick if she is a Have or Have Not without actually knowing for sure. Natalie Martinez's appearance and hygiene habits has been of constant fodder on the live feed forums.

Natalie is quick to admit that she doesn't shower frequently. When she does manage to take her weekly shower, it takes her about an hour. Natalie uses an electric razor to detail her hairy legs, arms, and other areas.

Many of the houseguests become perturbed when they decide to shower only to find out Natalie has just performed her weekly bathing regime, as they know there is no hot water.

Catch this deleted scene of the houseguests' diary rooms and their jabs at Natalie regarding her hygiene and her "funk"

Ronnie Talbott's Exit Interview Big Brother Hopes You Don't Read, Ronnie's LiveJournal Postings, Chip's Myspace Page

I think it is safe to say, at this point, America Loathes Ronnie Talbott. Chima Simone Benson may be riding on his coat-tails, but that is for another post.

Ronnie Talbott's activity during his down time -when not playing video games and attempting to keep his wife from divorcing him--has been discovered.

In an earlier postings, I presented you with Ronnie's Solitary Audition video, in which he admits to his cyber bullying. Also, I gave you the video production of "Chip and Zach", featuring Ronnie, his wife Michelle, and a sock puppet named Chip. It contains disturbing scenes of Ronnie's wife portraying Ronnie, aka Zach's mother, while then proceeding to "make out" with Chip the sock puppet.

Along with researching of my own and that of another poster/blogger, a MySpace page has been uncovered. Before being posted, I secured screen shots of the account.

The first link below is to the actual page, before it is deleted. The remainder are screen caps of the pages and Chip's blog.

"Chip's" MySpace page:

ChipChimp MySpace

Chip MySpace Cap 1

Chip MySpace Cap 2

Chip MySpace Cap 3

Chip MySpace Cap 4

Chip MySpace Cap 5

Chip MySpace Blog 1

Chip MySpace Blog 2

The screen caps were made due to the fact we all know the original MySpace will disappear like everything other disgusting thing Ronnie Talbott has endeavored in.
These are from the original MySpace, comments - some by his wife - and a blog written by "Chip the Monkey", from the YouTube video Chip and Zack.

It floors me to think that Ronnie and his wife think this sock puppet video is hilarious. It actually sickens me. As for Ronnie's deplorable comments to Casey about he and his wife's actions/morals are EXACTLY THE SAME at school and home should prove that neither Ronnie nor Michelle should EVER be around children!


More links:

RONNIE EXIT INTERVIEW WITH THE QUESTIONS YOU REALLY WANTED TO ASK

Jackie from Mediafiends.com interviewed Ronnie during his last day of Big Brother protection -- his Exit Interview Day. They were unable to keep Jackie (Jax) from asking the questions that really spoke to his game play.
INTERVIEW LINK BELOW

Jackie gave permission to link back to her site - thank you Jackie! YOU ROCK!!

Because of this interview, Jackie has been blackballed from any further interviews by the Big Brother Publicist! I have no doubt we have not seen the last of Jackie!!

The outrage over the blackballing of Jackie is blatantly obvious.

In retaliation, each of us Big Brother fans need to contact BB and let them know how wrong it is to put restrictions on Jackie. She asked all the questions we wanted asked, (and already knew the answers to) and at the very least, give Ronnie a last chance to own his mistakes. In true Ronnie fashion, he used semantics and never gave an honest, nor outright answer.

Please go to her link below, read the interview, and give please Jackie your kudos on an awesome interview/post!

Jackie from Mediafiend Exit Interview with Ronnie

__________________________

OTHER LINKS:


These are links to hometown newspaper articles that has comments from locals - that have since been removed! Obviously, and perhaps sadly, Ronnie's local town doesn't think too much of him either.

Newspaper Article

2nd Hometown Newspaper Article 1

2nd Hometown Newspaper Article 2

2nd Hometown Newspaper Article 3

2nd Hometown Newspaper Article 4

2nd Hometown Newspaper Article 5

2nd Hometown Newspaper Article 6

Here are more Exit Interviews - Ronnie's been making the Exit Interview Rounds!

People TV Watch Interview

Reality World Interview



It seems that Ronnie has figured out all that we have learned about who he really is!
The "Chip and Zach" perverted youtube videos, his creepy Solitary Audition tape that outed him as a cyber stalker/bully, as well as so much more, (Ronnie's LiveJournal writings, which are to say very revealing, yet disturbing, none the less are GONE!
Curiously removed and/or deleted within a day of Ronnie returning home from his stay in the Big Brother house.

However, due to my master recording skills, I have them on my safely on my computer. heh

Also, Google-ing Ronnie Talbott and AIM will give you some hits of some of Ronnie's comments and postings that are left behind. Ronnie was also a frequent poster at Survivor Sucks. The postings have been deleted, but SS members have began a very informative thread dedicated to Ronnie.
Some posters have wondered if the deletions were CBS's doing through BB Protection, or by Ronnie's own hand? It is hard to say.
The "Chip and Zach" was probably Ronnie, as well as the "Solitary Audition"? I'll go for all of the deletion being by Ronnie himself.

Clearly, he doesn't want any future employers or friends searching out his nastiness - making a video with a monkey puppet under the guise of "teaching children" and then turning it into a grotesque display of pervertedness is not the way to influence fellow educators. You know, the degree Ronnie is to obtain after 13 years of college at age 30?

In my opinion, since all of this material was found while Ronnie was inside the Big Brother house, some of which was easily found just by a simple Google search, and an in-depth knowledge of web-crawling. I am positive that Ronnie deleted all after his return home and upon learning of the ill will toward him and not feeling the love he expected.

An old LiveJournal of his - with the last post in 2005 has also surfaced. A few years old, but it certainly gives some background into his life at the time! And what a find!

Ronnie got wind that this blog had been dug up as well - and it was deleted also.

However, here are the screen caps from each blog - I did some cutting and pasting so you can read them in order, but of course, it is as it was on his blog!

Ronnie's Original --Now Deleted-- Live Journal

Ronnie Live Journal 1

Ronnie Live Journal 2a

Ronnie Live Journal 2b

Ronnie Live Journal 3a

Ronnie Live Journal 3b

Ronnie Live Journal 4a

Ronnie Live Journal 4b

Ronnie Live Journal 5

Ronnie Live Journal 6

Ronnie Live Journal 7

Ronnie Live Journal 8

Ronnie Live Journal 9

Ronnie Live Journal Top of Blog


This next article was sent to another blogger by a Central Michigan Fan...and has been verified through the means available.

Ronnie Talbott was never a "nationally ranked" debater. If he was, the
ranking would be very very low. Policy debaters debate at the NDT (National
Debate Tournament). If not at the NDT, there are other forms of debate as
well but the NDT is considered the most prestigious. Ronnie was a Forensics
participant, which houses L-D (Lincoln-Douglas style debate). As a
participant myself in NDT as well as Lincoln-Douglas, I know a thing or two
about what schools compete and what schools win. Ohio U has NEVER been a
major competitor in either style. To say he's a nationally ranked debater is
absolutely false, if not a major embellishment. Ronnie claims to have been a
national champion because he went to a tournament called Pi Kappa Delta. It
is a national tournament simply because everyone in the nation is invited.
It is NOT considered to be nationals, NFA (National Forensics Association)
Nationals is considered to be the "national" tournament. But don't just take
my word for it, even though I actually was an octafinalist at NFA Nationals
while having strep throat and mono, and was a top seed going into the
elimination rounds, and coached a high school debate team in Michigan to our
own state championship this year.

-- take a look at a Coach from Bradley University's thread:

Coach from Bradley University link

It is unfortunate that RiddleMe, the original poster of the messages outing Ronnie as the losing competitor that he is, has edited/deleted their original posts.

Ronnie is far from a real debater, he lied to get on the show. Thus, the reason behind his jealousy of houseguest Michelle Noonan.

Ronnie may have been "told" how smart and brilliant he is, but he lacked the ambition to further his academic career. While Michelle, on the other hand, went all the way to obtain her PhD.

Again, as I have stated before, Ronnie lacks the motivation to pursue anything of benefit in the real world.

Live Feeders may recall the conversations Ronnie had with Chima before his eviction that he wanted to find out how the other houseguests were chosen. -- As if CBS, AG, Endemol, Our House, and the other "powers that be", would allow Ronnie to be privy to that information. HA! Ronnie was p/o'd because he had to try out numerous times to even get on the show.

Me thinks it may have been the psych test..?

-----------------------------------
Another Ronnie Talbott production: "ManEater". Don't you just love these titles?


Ronnie Talbott in.... MANEATER

Check out another one of Ronnie's amazing pieces of work. He speaks sign language and the movie pokes fun at deaf and blind people. Ronnie's part comes in at 3:58.

-----------------------------------

This blog posting was based on my own, original research, along with the following:
the bloggers at : The World Hates Ronnie Talbott

Due to my damn chemo, they had the goods as well, and beat me to the post on the "LiveJournal" and "MySpace" info..
LMAO!! Great Job and Cheers, friend!
Pachinko at Survivor Sucks

Blondemss at Survivor Sucks:Dear Ronnie thread

Wonderful Ronnie Thread heh....

All the posters at Survivor Sucks

and Survivor Sucks in it's entirety.

All the updaters, posters, and members at Joker's Updates

Last, but not least, those who assisted me in the early research but did not want "credit"..you know who you are and you ROCK!

Ronnie Talbott Evicted! -- Ronnie Talbott's Exit Interview with Julie Chen / Big Brother Live Episode

BIG BROTHER 11'S CYBER-BULLY RONNIE TALBOTT'S DEMISE

Ronnie Talbott, 30 year old unemployed gamer and cyber-bully, was the 4th houseguest evicted out of the Big Brother House on Thursday, 8.6.09. END GAME.
NO JURY HOUSE, NO STIPEND, NO MORALS. GAME OVER.

See the entire video of the live Big Brother Episode here at CBS.com Big Brother 11


Ronnie Talbott's exit interview with Big Brother Host, Julie Chen.

Ronnie continues to downplay his horrible game play, deny he is anything but evil, and attempt his power of persuasion speaking on Julie Chen.

There is no sympathy when Ronnie meets his match with the classy, no-nonsense Julie Chen. Julie is not buying into any of Ronnie's ramblings. Chen calls Ronnie out on his every answer. Asking, "Can't the same be said of you?" Ronnie fails at his attempt to lie the blame of his mistakes on fellow houseguest, Michelle.

It is obvious that it is only sour grapes for Ronnie, for at this point,sitting across from the lovely Julie Chen, he realizes he caused his own demise in the house.

Ronnie then has the audacity to compare his game play to that of BB "Chill Town" alliance fame, "Dr. Will", and BB10's, Dan Gheesling.

Keep dreaming Ronnie. Or, hold that thought, not even in your dreams will you come close to being in the same league of Dr. Will and Dan Gheesling.

Remember, Ronnie? They WON!

When Julie finally asks Ronnie to describe what it is like to be in the house, Ronnie gives the genius answer of -- imagine putting 13 ("alpha people like me") in a house, lying, cheating, manipulating to get the money -- hmm, isn't that the main premise of the game?

LAME again, Ronnie. There is without a doubt, no depth to this guy.

He lacks the personality of a wet sponge.

Also of note, most evictees have at very least a five minute "CBS Early Morning Show" interview, notice the time of a little over 2 minutes spent with Julie in this video.

However, there is an extended interview video with an almost 13 minute running time, with further "enlightenment from Ronnie", which can be found at the bottom of this post.





Ronnie's entire exit interview with Julie Chen:
including crying, whining, continued lying, and reiteration of being a "consummate opportunist", to which I totally defy. Ronnie is a self-seeker, yes, but flexible and of superiority, no.



Sources:
CBS.com
CBS Early Show
Big Brother

Big Brother 11's Ronnie Talbott -- 30 Year Old College Senior

How Long Does It Take Ronnie Talbott To Graduate College?

Big Brother 11's Ronnie Talbott is a 1997 high school graduate. What has the 30 year old Ronnie been up to the last 12 years? Obtaining his 4 year college degree.

Transferring from Marshall University in West Virginia, Talbott is currently a senior at Ohio University, with plans to graduate this year, with a degree in high school education.

photo courtesy CBS

Ronnie's wife, Michelle, stated in an interview pertaining to Ronnie's claim / strategy of telling the houseguests that he is "an educator", Michelle replied that Ronnie "is a teacher, he just doesn't have a class, yet."

Akin to being a doctor without patients, or perhaps, a millionaire without the money yet.......

------------------------
From the Ohio University Outlook:


OHIO UNIVERSITY student on 'Big Brother'

Education major a guest on this season's 'Big Brother'

Jul 9, 2009 By Casey S. Elliott

A forensics team member and Ohio University student is hoping that his careful preparation and a natural gift for gab will help him win this season's "Big Brother" show.
Ohio University senior and education major Ronnie Talbott, 30, is one of 12 "house guests" on the show, which starts tonight on CBS.
The reality show, in its 11th season, has contestants live in the Big Brother House, where they are isolated from the outside world -- no television or other communication devices are allowed, yet they are under the constant watch of house cameras. The goal is to avoid eviction -- house guests regularly vote least-popular members out of the house -- with the last guest winning a $500,000 prize at the end of the season in September.
"He has loved that show from the very first season," said Talbott's mother, Charlene Talbott. "This is a dream come true for him. He was so excited when they gave him that house key. He's been trying to get on the show for four years."
Talbott plans to use skills he honed as a member of the forensics team at Ohio University to avoid eviction.
"He plans to be very strategic in his approach," said Dan West, the John A. Cassese Director of Forensics. "We talked about the strategy. He analyzed the last 10 seasons of the show, and looked at what works and what doesn't. He found that people have a lot of problems when they take things personally."
Talbott had to go through multiple interviews to be selected as a guest, West and Charlene Talbott said. Those interviews occurred in Columbus, Cleveland, Memphis, Tenn., and Los Angeles.
Talbott, a Belpre resident who transferred to Ohio University from Marshall University in West Virginia, plans to be a high school teacher after he graduates this year. His wife, Michelle Dye Talbott, is a teacher at Parkersburg South High School.
Talbott has a variety of interests that range from acting to teaching.
"Ronnie is a very gregarious, very outgoing person," Charlene Talbott said. "Ever since he was a young person, he gravitated to a variety of personalities. His friends and associates range from athletic jocks to geeks."
Charlene Talbott said in addition to being on the forensics team, Talbott has also participated in community theater productions.
Charlene Talbott said the family will be having a Big Brother party this evening to watch Talbott on the show. The show starts tonight at 8 p.m. on CBS.



Sources:
Ohio University Outlook
Big Brother Updates

Big Brother 11's Ronnie Talbott's Sock Monkey YouTube Videos--"Chip and Zack"

Ronnie Talbott revealed to his fellow Big Brother houseguests that his profession outside the Big Brother house is that of an "educator". He claims his wife, Michelle, is an educator, as well. According to interviews, this is one truth Ronnie has told. His wife, Michelle Dye Talbott, is in fact a teacher at Parkersburg South High School.

Ronnie had harsh words for his fellow, yet recently evicted houseguest, Casey Turner, during his stay in the house. Turner is actually a fifth grade educator.

Ronnie critiqued and attacked Casey's personal life, as "unbecoming to that of an educator".

Casey Turner, aka, MingleMixx, is also a Tampa-area hip hop DJ who works clubs, weddings, parties, and other venues on weekends, during his personal time.

Ronnie seemed to let these videos--the first of which also includes his wife portraying his Mother-- slip his mind during his attack on Casey. During an interview with Big Brother Updates, Ronnie's wife, Michelle, states that she thought making the video was fun and that now she could say she has "made out with a puppet".

And your "sponsors of Chip and Zach"... (yes, that's Ronnie in the video)

Most viewers are aware that Ronnie is an unemployed gamer, posing as an educator in the Big Brother house.

Houseguest Chima, once questioned Ronnie's scholastic lesson plans. While Ronnie's answers did not fit those of his claimed "educator status", Chima commented on the inconsistencies with Ronnie's "lesson plan", citing his teaching curriculum did not correlate on grade level with his "educator status". However, Chima did not pursue the conversation further, except to mention the contradictions in a conversation with another houseguest, therefore, letting Ronnie off the hook.

On BB11 live feeds, as recent as last night, Ronnie has made several statements regarding his behavior as to not jeopardize his "employment".

Ronnie also stated that his first question to his wife, after his eviction, will be that of his employment status, and then how he was "edited" and the public's general liking of him.

Ronnie is taking a page out of BB10's Dan's game play - who is an actual educator and staff member for a college level football team - by scheming, lying, and making these educator references.

While Dan also schemed his way through BB10 to ultimately become the $500,000.00 winner, Dan held true to his educator status and morals, knowing that his students and fellow faculty members would be watching his game play. Dan also mentioned his students would be viewing and that he did not want to behave in a manner to embarrass himself, his family, his school, nor portray himself in a negative light "outside of the game and the BB House".


After viewing the above videos, would you want these two people teach your children?

Sources:
YouTube
Big Brother Updates

Cyber-Bully Ronnie Talbot's Wife Allegedly Cheating For Votes Outside Big Brother House...

As if Ronnie Talbot's cyber-bully reputation is not enough, his wife, Michelle Talbot is getting in on the cyber action.

Below is a screen shot from the website, where "allegedly" Ronnie Talbot's wife, Michelle, is attempting to lure and enlist the help of someone to create a "bot" to over-ride the CBS Big Brother online voting.

Big Brother viewers are voting until Tuesday at 11:59pm PST for their favorite Houseguest to win the Coup D'etat, or "secret power" which could dramatically change the game play.

Ronnie's wife, Michelle Talbot, has been on several boards and forums-under anonymity on some, while on others, there is no question as to her identity-blatantly asking for any type of assistance in creating a bot and placing the code into the CBS website voting page that would give all votes for the Coup D'etat to Ronnie, whether Ronnie was voted for or not.

Imagine, the wife of a gamer and computer geek asking for computer code. What a joke!

While some are helping with the code, this code can also be used to the advantage of other houseguests by replacing code for Ronnie with that of another Houseguest.

This gives each houseguest an unfair advantage, even the Houseguest viewers want to win. Even if my Houseguest of preference, (Jeff) wins the Coup D'etat, I want to know that it was in fairness.

Longtime Big Brother fans know that BB has always been suspect of "rigging" the game to their liking. It has been a given.

This is an issue where an outsider is attempting to manipulate the voting mechanism.

Also, cell phone voters, think of this, you are being charged twice for each vote. Once by your carrier for text, and then $1.00 by CBS per vote. If the voting is rigged, it is the same as not receiving what you paid for.

click to enlarge

This screen shot is from the website Cheating Network.net

This despicable action has already made its rounds to CBSs Forum Boards,Joker's Updates, as well as other Big Brother Forums. However, Big Brother fans, please continue to forward to CBS via email.

Email to: CBS Interactive Services

BE SURE TO CHECK BIG BROTHER on the form for the show you are commenting on.

Place the website link to the voting bot request (in blue, below) in the comments section of the CBS email, along with any comments of your own.

The website URL for the voting bot request is:

http://cheatingnetwork.net/forums/bot-makers/33603-request-can-someone-make-me-big-brother-voting-bot.html

Thanks for your help, Big Brother Fans!


GO TEAM JJ! (Jeff/Jordan)

CBS's Big Brother Contestant, Ronnie Talbot, Guilty of Cyber-Bullying *Updated Post*

Ronnie Talbot of CBS's Summer Hit "Big Brother 11" is a self proclaimed cyber bully. It was also revealed by no one other than Ronnie Talbot himself.

Please see update below.

Ronnie Talbot is currently on CBS's reality show Big Brother 11 as the house's geeky, gaming nerd who consistently wears a t-shirt emblazoned with the label "DORK". Ronnie has stated in the "game" that he is employed as an "educator".

However, internet research has divulged Talbott is an unemployed gamer, liar, and his wife, Michelle, has threatened divorce due to his gaming habit-which Ronnie admitted to on the BB live feeds.

Ronnie is also stirring the pot with his former university alumni regarding his lying to the Big Brother house guests on air that he is a "national persuasive speaking champion". A title that has little impression on me, but I can see where whomever the real champion is, they have just as much right to defend their title.

With all of the cyber bullying, internet stalking, and other forms of cyber harassment in the media today, Ronnie Talbot is proud of the fact that he falsified a "female identity" in order to harass and mislead a "former friend that pissed him off".

In the video, Ronnie continues to chuckle about his "grudge holding" and finds it rather humorous that the male victim of his cyber bullying actually fell for the female "that didn't really exist".

This is hauntingly familiar to the recent story of thirteen year old Megan Meier, of Missouri, whom, after befriending an online male friend, named "Josh Evans", committed suicide after the "online relationship" suddenly turned sour. Megan was the happiest she had been in her life during the weeks she spoke online to her new acquaintance. However, what Megan did not know, was that Josh Evans was only a figment of her next door neighbor and family friend, Lori Drew's, imagination.
Megan died not knowing that Josh never really existed. Megan died believing Josh was real.
Lori Drew - who continues to be non-compassionate, unapologetic and unsympathetic to the Meier's,-recently made headlines after her three year prison sentence was overturned by California Judge Wu, pending further interpretation of the law and terms of service of MySpace.

Drew, who resides in Missouri, was tried in California due to the jurisdiction of MySpace.

Anyone that has followed the Megan Meier tragedy knows that cyber bullying is a serious crime. It is also a fatal crime, as in Megan's case, and many other teens around the country and continues to grow.

Megan Meier, after engaging in an online feud with friends and her new found love interest on MySpace, hanged herself in her bedroom closet. The last message Megan received on her Myspace account was from the false male identity created by Lori Drew, which read, "the world would be better off without you".

Megan's mother, Tina Meier, has faced an unimaginable last two and half years dealing with court proceedings on top of grieving the death of her daughter. Tina Meier has put her heart and soul into pushing for laws to be put into place that could help prevent crimes like cyber-bullying and internet harassment, as well as possibly lead to criminal charges against those individuals who create "false accounts" to pose as another identity.

Watch a then blond Ronnie Talbot laugh and snicker at his cyber-bullying, and how he played a former friend with a false internet account:

this video is from Ronnie Talbot's audition for Fox's reality show, "Solitary", in which Ronnie did not make it as far as his audition.

Please, click these links to learn more about cyber-bullying, and more importantly, gain more information about Megan Meier's story and The Megan Meier Foundation.

Click to read ABC's article regarding Judge Wu's decision regarding Lori Drew's sentencing.

Ronnie is also stirring the pot outside the Big Brother house with his university alumni regarding his lying to his Big Brother house guests on air that he is a "national persuasive speaking champion". A title that has little impression on me, but I can see that to whomever the real champion is, they have just as much right to defend their title.

One person who personally knows Ronnie has stated that Ronnie is not trustworthy inside, nor outside, the Big Brother House and also feels that Talbot is inept at any given task.

Another former acquaintance of Talbot's states "Lying may be a huge part of the Big Brother game, but when it comes to straight out lying about your personal and professional life outside the game, it can cause major damage to one's reputation outside the house, and perhaps repercussions."

On behalf of Megan Meier, Ian Steele, and all the other teenagers affected by cyber-bullying, internet harassment, and harassment of any kind, please contact CBS and voice your feelings regarding this matter.

To email CBS: please go to http://www.cbs.com/info/user_services/fb_global_form.php

To write or phone CBS:

Headquarters
CBS Interactive, Inc.

235 Second Street

San Francisco, CA 94105

Main: 415-344-2000

Regarding Big Brother directly:

Los Angeles
CBS

2101 Rosecrans Avenue,

Suite 4295

El Segundo, CA 90245

Phone: (310)322-9124

Fax: (310)322-8957

Los Angeles
CBS

600 West 7th St.

Los Angeles, CA 90017

Please call, send emails, write via snail mail. Let CBS, and other networks, for that matter, know that America does not accept this type of conduct regarding casting for their reality shows.

Update 7/31/09:

I want to thank all of you that have sent personal emails to me regarding this post. Thank you to fellow members at "Joker's Updates" for posting the link in the discussion forums and for those who have posted the link on other various BB websites.

My main goal is to draw attention to the heinous act of cyber-bullying, and Ronnie Talbott just happened to be the perfect cyber-bully poster boy. The fact that he admitted his actions in the audition video, then had the audacity to believe it was a hilarious thing to do, shows how callous Ronnie Talbott truly is.

Ronnie, the almighty one that reads and quotes the Bible to other houseguests, then turns around and judges others' actions, is the absolute definition of hypocrite.

Ronnie claims to be an "educator". Chima called him out on it, but no one gave it a second thought. Casey, in my opinion, is an excellent educator of 5th grade students. Casey's personal life should have no reflection on his employment. Nor, should his employment have any reflection on how he plays the game. Ronnie is a wanna be, and a loser.

In my opinion, Ronnie saw in Casey what he may have at one time aspired to be: an educator himself. Graduating high school in 1997, it has taken Ronnie 12 years to complete college, graduating this year at the age of 30. Ronnie lacks the discipline to teach others because he is too self-absorbed and lazy to care about the welfare of himself, nor anyone else. Hence, his wife's threat of divorce due to his selfish gaming habits. This statement was made by Ronnie to fellow houseguests on the live feeds. Yes, it is out there.

To those that think this post is unfair, to each their own. You have an opinion as I have mine. I also have a family and wonderful children, who desire to become productive, contributors of society. Not a "Ronnie".

I applaud the soldiers overseas, including members of my family, who are fighting to protect your and my right to free speech, including the right to voice our own opinions, whether we agree or not.

With that said...Go Team JJ!! (Jeff/Jordan) and to those Houseguests that decide to align with them.

Ultimate Goal: Evict Ronnie and Jessie the Roid; Muzzle the Lap Dog, keep the Ikea knife away from Lydiot, and then get on with the game!!

Thanks to all my wonderful readers!

Please keep Megan Meier's family, Jesse Logan's family, Ian Steele's family, as well as all the families of victims of suicide, and/or suicide due to cyber-bullying, in your prayers.

Cyber-bullying is a shameless, cowardly act. We have all seen the type of manipulation Ronnie is capable of.

Even though some say "..this (BB) is a game", what Ronnie Talbott did regarding the cyber-bullying was not a "game". This malicious act affected a real person's real life and real emotions.

I originally posted this article to bring attention to "the act" of cyber-bullying and the fact that Ronnie Talbott admitted to being guilty of "the act" of cyber-bullying.

This article had no intention of being related to Ronnie's "game play" in the Big Brother house, nor the actual show itself. My purpose, again, was to bring to light this malicious person, the act he commited, and the fact he victimized another human being.

Thank you again, to all.

original post 7/20/09 @ 11:55pm

updated post 7/31/09 4:00pm

The Story of Jesse Logan, Another Suicide Due to Sexting and Cyber-Bullying Crimes

Jesse Logan, another young, beautiful life lost due to sexting/cyber-bullying

Parents Should Learn What Sexting is and How to Prevent It

Jesse Logan committed suicide over sexting, and her mother Cynthia Logan is bringing her daughter death out in the public to bring awareness to the consequences of sexting.18-year-old Jesse Logan did what so many other girls her age have done: She sent nude pictures of herself to her boyfriend. Jesse Logan and her boyfriend broke up and he decided to share the private pictures with other teen girls. The girls then started calling Jesse names such as slut and whore. The pressure was too much for Jesse and she took her own life, she committed suicide by hanging herself. Her mother, Cynthia Logan, was on the TODAY show today and explained what happened to her only child Jesse. Jesse Logan chose to speak out about sexting on television only two months before she committed suicide. Jesse just wanted to make other teens aware of the consequences of sending sexually charged pictures.

Cynthia Logan bravely talked to Matt Lauer to make other parents and teens aware of what can happen when you send nude pictures or sexually explicit messages through email or cell phone texts.

Teens who send and receive nude pictures can be charged with child pornography. Six teenagers in Pennsylvania were charged with child pornography after sending and receiving nude pictures on their cell phone. The teens ranged in age from 14 to 17 years old.

Many parents are wondering what is sexting?

Sexting is sending any nude or partially nude pictures, or sexually oriented messages through cell phone texting, email or posting on a social networking sites like Myspace and Facebook. Many parents wrongly assume their teen would never do such a thing. The fact is if you spend a few minutes on Myspace, Facebook or even YouTube you will find many sexually explicit pictures being posted and video being shared. Teens are also using webcams to record nude video of themselves. The webcams are easily viewable through most instant message (IM) sites like Yahoo chat.

Parents Should Learn What Sexting is and How to Prevent It

First, talk to your teenagers about what is appropriate. Often teen believe their boyfriend or girlfriend is their true love and day dream they will be together always. Teens often break up and in many instances the private pictures they shared get shown to everyone, just like Jesse Logan's did.

Second, make sure to frequently check what pictures your teen is posting to social networking sites. Ask your teen to show you their Myspace and Facebook profile pictures. Have your teen set their Myspace account to private so only friends can view the profile and pictures. Also, consider not allowing your teen to have a computer in their room and move the computer to a family location. Teens are less likely to send images when mom or dad could turn the corner at any moment.

Third, ask to see your child's cell phone and check the pictures sent and received. Many parent do not want to invade their teen's privacy but you have every right to see what is being sent and received on the cell phone.

Myspace has a safety site that has special information just for parents. You can visit it the parents site here. You will find good information on how to find out if your teenager has a myspace account, safety tips and information on how to delete your child's myspace account.

Facebook suggests all users between 13 and 18 ask their parents permission before registering for a profile.

Sources:

NBC TODAY show -"Her teen committed suicide over 'sexting' "

CBS news "Sexting" Shockingly Common Among Teens"

CBS news -"Teens Who `sext' Racy Photos Charged With Porn"

Myspace

Myspace safety for parents

Facebook -Facebook privacy policy

Monday Mom Matters -- Radical Parenting by Vanessa Van Petten

Today's Mom Matters again deals with cyber-bullying and how to keep your children best protected.

The following is an excellent post from a favorite blogger / author of mine, Vanessa Van Petten.

You can find more of Vanessa's insightful posts regarding parenting teens today at her website Radical Parenting Vanessa runs her website along with 15 teenagers who assist in giving insight on today's technology available to teens in addition to issues teens may face daily.

Radical Parenting is an excellent starting point for any parent wanting to keep up to date with the social networking sites available to teens on the Internet. Also, parents can find a plethora of information pertaining to parenting including bullying, boredom, dating, and a vast array of family related issues.

From Vanessa Van Petten:

The Internet has changed the playground-bully into the in-my-bedroom-bully.

It’s true, the line between school life and home life is gone. Kids can no longer leave the social pressures, cliques, bullies, snootiness and the other highlights of adolescence at school.
Now, the social scene follows students home, into their bedrooms, and can be turned on at any moment. No, in fact it is never turned off, because you never know who is going to post something mean on your wall next.

Here, I want to give a brief overview of how bullying has changed for the net-generation so parents are more equipped to handle it and help their kids deal with it.

Today, bullying/cyberbullying is:

1) Creative

Options for a bully circa 1980:
-steal lunch money

-call someone names/say mean things to their face

-call someone names/say mean things behind their back

-punch them in the face/kick them/pinch them/ physically assault them

-punch them in the face/kick them/pinch them/ physically assault their friend or usually younger, relative.

-write a nasty note and pass it around class, leave it on their locker-stick your tongue out at them

Options for a bully today: (just from the news stories I found on bullying alone, I could think of many more that have not been reported on)

Everything from above, plus

-write a nasty note or rumor on their facebook wall for everyone to see

-put up embarrassing pictures of the person on your school’s social network

-digitally impose the person’s head onto a naked body and pass it around like it is real

-submit their name/picture to a site like “Hot or Not” for strangers to rate how ugly the person is

-create a website dedicated to how much you hate that person

-lure them into writing a mean/weird IM chat and post it all over MySpace or the school.

-Create a fake user, pretend to be hot, flirt with the person and then break up with them/tell them you hate them/ tell them they are too ugly for you.

-Send mean text messages

-harass their avatars or video game players on gaming websites

It is incredibly sad, but the Internet has brought thousands of ways to bully someone without ever being caught. Parents need to know that their child could be bullied in a number of ways online, through phones and even through video games.

2) Instant
Before, if you got in a fight at school, or found out you were not invited to a party, you were able to come home and vent about to mom/ dad/ sister/ brother, get a snack and cool off. Now, if you are mad at someone, you can instantly send a text message to your social networking profile to post a mean comment. Now there is no ‘off’ time and the second something happens, everyone knows about it because they all get alerts or texts from automated news feeds or plugged-in friends. Teens are checking these services CONSTANTLY, so before what took a few days to spread, now can take a few minutes.

3) Permanent
Some things, like postings on your wall, video, a text message or email, you can delete. Other things, such as photos or social network announcements can be up there forever or until the writer removes them.
Also, even if they post a superimposed picture for five minutes on a school network before it is removed, others can easily download it and repost it or pass it around by email undetected—and as with all gossip, even the most factless based rumors hurt a reputation.

4) Accessible
The whole point of many social networks, texting and websites is to be connected to people you would not normally be connected to. I always say that ‘privacy settings’ should really be called ‘lace curtain settings’ because you never know who is going to get into your profile the back way (MySpace Pedophiles). Before, nerds, jocks or drama queens went to different parties and traveled in different circles. Now, the ‘great connector that is the Internet makes everyone’s personal information and attention accessible on the same sites.

5) Cool
The more popular kids have always made fun of the ‘uncool’ kids, but now bullying is easily made ‘fun’ for everyone. At Juicy Campus, a website all about spreading gossip and rumors, or Hot or Not.com, users can vote on the attractiveness of submitted pictures and make students who would not normally ‘bully’ or gossip attracted to the idea. Hot or Not makes it cool and fun to judge people based on their appearance and is very popular with my generation.
Even Gangs are now using Social Networking Sites to recruit and organize activities…seriously.

6) Buffered
It is really hard to walk up to someone and say to them: “You are a fat slut.” It is much easier to write that on someone’s Facebook wall—which someone did. Technology provides a way for students to be mean even more ‘behind the back.’ Many times, you can even post pictures, videos or send messages anonymously! This has changed the face of bullying because it allows people to be mean and not face the consequences—they can’t get punched back, they can hide it from parents and teachers by posting anonymously and do not have to say it to people, they can simply type a comment in a moment of passion when they are alone in their room!

It is really important to talk about these new aspects of bullying. I bring these issues up with all of the kids I mentor and teen groups I speak to. Make sure to discuss with them the ramifications of letting a friend take a sexy picture, disabling the Facebook wall or what would happen if they got in a fight with a friend.

Also give them resources if they know another student is being bullied. With the recent school shootings, it is important for kids to have a place to anonymously report bullying of any kind. They can do this at: ancomm.com.

I hope that this post has been relevant and informative, be sure to send it to any families or teens who you think might need it.

Stay informed,

Vanessa Van Petten

Source: Radical Parenting, Vanessa Van Petten

Jon and Kate Gosselin's "Big Announcement" Planned For Monday's Episode

Slow Week In The Tabloids?

So we are all wondering--What's the announcement? Divorce? Separation? Marriage Counseling? The last episode? (no-there's that little contract).. or maybe it is Ashton Kutcher jumping out announcing the audience has been punked?

Beginning today, Thursday, June 18, TLC began airing promos for next Monday's episode of Jon and Kate + 8, billing it as an hour long special. (see promo above)

In an overdub, Kate states the family has made decisions that will affect every family member, but will hopefully bring peace.

Jon and Kate's 10th wedding anniversary was June 12. The couple were not together. Kate was at the "Kon-pound", while Jon ventured back to New York.

According to Radar Online, Jon is filing divorce papers next week.

Now, usually I would believe this if the papers had already been filed--you know, public record.
However, Radar is stating that Jon is also seeing Hailey Glassman, daughter of Dr. Glassman (aka "Dr.Kate's Free Tummytuck").

This speculation came over Memorial Day weekend when Kate plus 8, plus sitter, plus bodyguard, vacay'ed 2 weeks on posh Bald Head Island, NC, sans Jon. Jon, however, was seen venturing around New York, hitting the bars, and was spotted and photographed with Mrs. Glassman and Hailey.

We have gone a few tabloids minus the Gosselin drama in the past week, so I am chalking up this "announcement" to gain more media fodder and exploitation of the kids, as the show's ratings are slowly dropping.

TLCs website also has "Kate's Blog". The blogging community has dubbed the blog as the "Fake Kate Blog" and it is presumed that the blog is being written by a "ghostwriter".

Kate once professed on her own personal website to post a daily devotion for the entire year. She managed to post less than a dozen.

TLC is allowing pro and anti Gosselin comments to be posted, only after being moderated. However, it is suspiciously clear that the Jon bashing posts far outnumber those that are anti-Kate.

Announcements, blogs, photos, whatever, my concern is when is PA Dept. of Labor going to initialize their investigation and provide the results? hmm..maybe that is the "announcement"...

Whatever the announcement...I continue to stand firm on "Team Eight" (Gosselin kids) and pray they are taken from in front of the cameras and that the selfishness of their parents do not do permanent damage to them, if it hasn't already.

copyright SpoiledMom except where sources mentioned

TLC/Jon and Kate
Radaronline.com