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36 | FireFlyz
Bullying does not just happen in the playground or in school anymore.
Modern technology and social media have taken it to a whole new level.
Cyberbullying:
Is Your Child A Victim?
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the use of technology to harass, threaten,
embarrass or target another person. This generally occurs among
young people, though adults are sometimes involved. If an adult
is involved, this may meet the definition of cyberstalking, which
is a crime that may have legal consequences.
At time it can be easy to spot. For example, if your child shows
you a text, tweet or a Facebook response to a post that is mean
or cruel, this is cyberbulling. Some kids have reported that fake
accounts, webpages or online personas have been created with
the sole intention to harass and bully.
Many kids are reluctant to report being bullied, even to their
parents. This being the case, it is impossible to know the actual
numbers of kids who are affected by cyberbullying. Recent
studies, however, have shown that something like 1 in 4 teens
have been affected. Most of them said that they had experienced
abuse through social and digital media.
Effects of Cyberbullying
Modern day bullying can, nowadays, happen at home as well
as in school. As long as kids have access to a phone, computer
or tablet, they are essentially at risk 24 hours a day. This may
lead them to feel that there is no escape. Severe, long-term or
frequent cyber bullying can leave both the victims, and the bullies
themselves, at a greater risk for suicidal thoughts and attempts.
Signs of Cyberbullying
Many kids and teens who are bullied in this way do not want to
tell a teacher or parent, mainly because the feel ashamed of the
social stigma or they are afraid that their computer privilege at
homewill be taken away. Some of the signs to look out for include
being upset during or after using the Internet, avoiding school or
group gatherings, being nervous or jumpy when getting a text
or email and a withdrawal from family members and friends.
How parents can help
If you discover that your child is being cyberbullied, one of the
best things that a parent can do is to offer comfort and support.
Talking about any bullying experiences you had in your childhood
may help your child feel less alone. Let your child know that it
is not their fault and remind the child that they are not alone.
Inform someone at the school and encourage your child not to
respond to the bullying. Keep the threatening messages, pictures
and texts as proof of the bullying.