Answers to ‘You Decide’ Questions

10.1: The sudden identification of bullying as a serious problem might be due to the increase in the types of bullying. With the increased use of computers and technology bullying has expanded into cyber space in addition to being a problem that has existed in our communities for decades. This might be one of the reasons why it has suddenly gained so much attention. Bullying can be addressed through laws, if there is an effort put into enforcing them. Schools and the legal system should be involved in bullying resolution rather than giving parents that liberty. If parents were expected to address bullying this could allow for more conflict (between parents or parents and other people’s children).

10.2: Studies should be conducted in those countries that have harsh laws intended to deter distracted driving in order for us to determine whether there is a deterrence factor. The use of phones while driving should be regulated by the law due to the grave consequences of being distracted by phone usage.

10.3: Prosecutorial overreaching is a common practice, so much so that simply going to trial as opposed to agreeing to a plea deal is called the ‘trial penalty’. This coercive tactic might not be completely ethical. However, one cannot hold the government liable for suicide if the individual was not coerced into actually committing that particular crime.