How to Protect Your Child From Cyberbullying

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cyberbullying
(via www.strategicpsychology.com.au/)

With an increase in access to technology, the younger generation has been more susceptible to bullying. It’s not the traditional bullying we often think about; it’s unseen and can be done anonymously — cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying: What Is Cyberbullying and How to Stop It” informs its readers on ways children and parents can protect themselves against the increasing trend.

The article defines cyberbullying as “any form of abuse repeatedly directed at a child through technology by another child. This could be online through social media, like Facebook, or via text messages on their mobile phones.”

It can take on a variety of forms, such as sharing and posting videos or photos online that are cruel in intention, making threats via social media, texts or email, hacking into an account to send untrue messages to others, and much more.

Facts About Cyberbullying

cyberbullying
Over 70% of teens have a smartphone, and 15% have at least a basic cellphone, making texting one of the most common methods of bullying.

The article shares some facts:

  • Girls (40.6%) are much more likely to be victims than boys (28.8%). Girls also dominate social media, while boys tend to play video games.
  • Bullying and cyberbullying are closely related. Children who are victims of traditional bullying in school also experience cyberbullying at home. Children who bully traditionally will also bully other children on social media and with text messages.
  • In a random sample study over 14% admitted to cyberbullying another person, with spreading rumors online, via text, or email being the most common form of bullying.
  • A study by McAfee found that 87% of teens have observed cyberbullying.

How to Stop It

Certain studies have shown that 1 in 4 teens have been cyberbullied. The effects this form of bullying has on victims can range from alcohol and drug use to suicide.

While cyberbullying may be hard to track and stop, it is still possible to prevent it. The article provides a thorough list of what teens can do if they are the target or if they are a witness of it.

Unfortunately, because teens may not often share with their parents if they are a victim, parents must pay attention and talk to their children about bullying and what they can do.

For more explanation on cyberbullying and prevention, visit the article, here.

Click here for an ultimate online guide.