What is Happy Slapping?
A Disturbing and Violent form of Bullying
Happy slapping, a fairly new method of bullying, targets unsuspecting victims by capturing these crimes on video or cellphones and uploading them online.
Imagine, waiting for the bus, minding ones own business, and without warning or provocation, a perfect stranger walks up and slaps a person in the face. It’s called “happy slapping” and it has become a disturbing new trend.
Definition and origins
Happy slapping is a fairly new phenomenon. It happens when an unsuspecting target or victim is physically attacked or provoked, in real life. An accomplice is standing by, photographing or videotaping the entire event. Camera cell phones are normally used in this method of bullying. The image or video is later shared with friends, posted online or distributed electronically. Often the victim has no idea the incident was videotaped until later. The attacks are usually spontaneous and random, although sometimes the attacker does know his or her victim. This type of bullying is usually carried out by teenagers and gangs, targeting other children, although anyone of any age can be victimized.
The happy slapping phenomenon reportedly began in London in 2004. The first time the term was used in print was in a newspaper article in 2005. Early happy slapping incidents began as fairly minor pranks, simply slapping the unsuspecting victim while taping their reaction. Many times, the attackers would say it was only a prank or joke, hence the term “happy slapping”. Capturing the startled reaction of the victim is an integral aspect of happy slapping.
Cellphones and websites banned as a result
As the happy slapping fad grew, the attacks became more and more violent. Incidents kicking, punching, setting people on fire, sexual assaults and several cases resulting in death have been reported. One such case, of an 18-year-old boy, was allegedly punched so hard, he reeled backwards, hitting his head on the floor and died a week later. Images of the attack, as well as 14 others, were found on the bullies' cell phones. The attackers were prosecuted.
In order to combat this issue, many schools are banning the use of cell phones, camera phones or YouTube-style video websites. Some countries are also taking a tough stance when it comes to this type of cyber bullying. Victoria, Australia, has banned the YouTube website from 1600 government schools, after a violent attack on a 17-year-old girl was reportedly uploaded to YouTube.
New Zealand recently installed filters in 2300 schools to prevent access to social networking sites after school fights appeared online. France recently made it a crime for anyone, other than journalists, to film real world violence and distribute it online. Violators are subject to stiff penalties, including prison time and large fines.
Happy slapping is a violent form of bullying and needs to be dealt with seriously and quickly.
For further information, read What is Cyberbullying and Cyberbullying Ends in Tragedy.
