What Are the Signs of Cyberbullying?

Old-fashioned ideas of bullying in the schoolyard have given way to more modern cyberbullying attacks that present an insidious and highly damaging reality for many children, teens, and adults. All across social media, content-sharing sites, chat platforms, and other spaces designed for fun and community, people stand ready to attack others and cause serious problems. When you recognize the signs of cyberbullying, you can become part of the solution and help save yourself or others from headaches, negative social repercussions, and even more serious outcomes.

Avoidance of Social Media or Other Online Platforms

Most Internet-based bully situations occur on social media and other sharing and communication platforms. They also happen in online multiplayer games with far too much frequency. For many kids and teens, these virtual spaces represent a large part of their social life and entertainment. Avoidance of formerly enjoyable activities clearly indicates a problem.

Secrecy or Lack of Communication About Internet Use

Far too many people who experience cyberbullying feel guilt over it. Their self-confidence suffers, and they may feel safer hiding the situation because they do not know the repercussions of telling someone. As a parent or guardian, it is a good idea to keep track of your child's online activities to a reasonable degree. If you ask them what happened on social media or how their online gaming session went and they refuse to tell you, it could be a sign that someone is treating them negatively on these platforms or because of their interests. Instead of prying, offer supportive words that let them know you are on their side and that they can come to you if anything is wrong.

Reduced Interest in Enjoyable Activities

People who are cyberbullied may also stop taking part in outside interests. If your child does not want to go to a regular friend’s house to hang out, participate in an afterschool club, or go to sports practice, pay closer attention. This does not necessarily mean that their bully is in one of these groups. Sometimes, it feels safer to simply avoid all social situations because of doubt and negative feelings.

Withdrawal From Friend Groups

Unfortunately, cyberbullying often comes from someone within a friend or peer group instead of a stranger online. If your child stops talking about a former friend, expresses anger or sadness about the relationship, or generally avoids doing social activities that they liked previously, consider bullying as a cause. Avoidance is a good way to mitigate bullying behavior, but withdrawing completely from socialization is not the best solution.

Changes in Sleeping and Eating Habits

Although kids and teenagers frequently experience fluctuations of diet and sleep habits, these changes can also indicate something seriously wrong. They are associated with the stress, anxiety, and depression that may occur because of cyberbullying. Sleeping for an extra-long time or napping in the daytime may be an avoidance technique. Not eating like they did before may be in response to teasing specifically about weight or appearance or because the stress affects their digestion and comfort.

If you notice these signs of cyberbullying, it is time for a frank conversation about what is going on and how you can solve it together. It is important to keep the lines of communication open and assure them that bullying is not their fault. Also, help shift the narrative from one of victimization to a more positive and proactive plan combatting cyberbullying at its source.