September 9, 2021

The Impact of Cyberbullying my be Greater than you Thought
 

2018 study found that children and young adults who are the victims of cyberbullying are more than twice as likely to engage in self-harm or attempt suicide.

(Swansea University - Wales, United Kingdom- 2018)

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Words can hurt.

People can do hurtful things.

Images, videos, or personal information shared without consent or through coercion can be traumatizing.

Cyberbullying occurs online, it can occur 24/7 and go viral throughout a school, community or worldwide instantaneously. 

Gossip, impersonation, exclusion, harassment, and trickery are among tacticscyberbullies use.

No child is immune from the effects of cyberbullying, which can include:

  • Feelings of humiliation, isolation, embarrassment, anger, powerlessness
  • Negative impact upon self-esteem
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Loss of interest or fear to attend school/other activities
  • Sleep or eating disorders
  • Self harm, suicidal behaviors, or taking one's own life.

59% of U.S. teens have been bullied or harassed online, and over 90% believe it's a major problem for people their age 

(Pew Research Center, 2018)

 A 2018 Google survey reported that teachers now consider cyberbullying to be the #1 classroom safety problem.

So, what can a parent or caregiver do if they suspect cyberbullying is taking place? 

  • Stay calm. Keep open lines of communication with your children. 
  • Contact your child’s school if the bullying involves another student. 
  • Do not delete messages from cyberbullies to keep as evidence. If your child is in immediate danger or threatened with harm, crime or illegal behavior, contact your local police.
  • Report child sex abuse material, obscenity, or a cybercrime to: Cybertipline.com or 1-800-THE-LOST
  • The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 to help individuals in suicidal crisis with support. Call 800-273-8255 or chat by visiting: Suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Visit Cyberbullying101 to learn more safety tips, how to respond to social media attacks and access helpful resources.