Embedded Files
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying or online bullying is any type of bullying that happens online. It is defined as "a situation when someone is repeatedly 'tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted' by another person (StopCyberbullying.org).
Unlike bullying that takes place offline, online bullying can follow the victim wherever they go. As such, it can sometimes feel like there's no escape or safe space.
Services such as social networking sites, e-mail, chat rooms, discussion forums and instant messaging can all be used in this type of bullying.
Cyberbullies can be classmates, online acquaintances, and even anonymous users, but most often they do know their victims.
Cyberbullying is a criminal offence and is punishable by law.
Bernardos Report on Cyberbullying
In 2022, Bernardos published a report which was informed by focus groups held with children between the ages of 8 and 12. The report, called ‘Cyberbullying in Children’s Own Words’ found that:
62% of the children have seen other people being cyberbullied
53% of the children surveyed have been cyberbullied themselves (once or many times)
18% have been cyberbullied in a way that really affected their ability to learn and to feel safe at school
25% of the children surveyed responded that they had cyberbullied others
It was also noted that children don’t ‘seem to tell their parents if they are being
cyberbullied. 60% of those surveyed said they would never tell a parent if they were
cyberbullied.’ (Bernardos, 2022 )
Pdf of Bernardos 2022 Report - ‘Cyberbullying in Children’s Own Words’
barnardos-online-safety-cyberbullying-report-2022.pdfThe Effects of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying can manifest in many different ways, but below are some of the most common:
Exclusion:
This can happen in many ways, you may be excluded from online activities, conversations or social media tags.
Harassment:
Is sustained and intentional bullying comprised of abuse of threatening messages sent.
Fraping:
Is when someone logs into your social media account and impersonates you posting inappropriate content in your name.
Fake Profiles:
Can be created by someone to hide their real identity with the intention of cyberbullying
Trolling
Trolling designed to provoke a response using insults on online forums and social media sites. A troll will personally attack you aiming to make you angry and provoke a response.
Catfishing
This involves stealing online identities and recreating profiles for deceptive purposes.
Outing
This Is the public humiliating of a person by the sharing of private or embarrassing information without consent.
Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking a dangerous form of cyberbullying in which attackers usually adults harass victims or young people and contact them by email or social media messages
Preventing Cyberbullying
An important prevention step is to know how to tell if someone is suffering from cyberbullying?
Victims of cyberbullying often suffer in silence. Always keep an eye on inexplicable behavioral changes in your loved ones, as they can be signs of ongoing cyberbullying. You may notice your friend, peer, or family member:
Becomes quieter, distant, and isolated.
Remains distracted at school or work.
Withdraws from favourite activities.
Experiences eating or sleeping disorders.
Has unexplained, frequent mood changes.
Shows signs of aggression unexpectedly.
Avoids school, college, or work.
Spends significantly more or less time online.
Becomes tense and anxious when using their phone or computer.
Useful Links
Page updated
Report abuse