7 Signs of Cyberbullying

Living in a digital era offers endless opportunities to connect and share with others. However, the potential for positive communication is often overshadowed by the prevalence of trolls, hackers, and bullies who attack others online. Cyberbullying refers to a wide array of online abuse. This could include but is not limited to harassment, account hacking, and slut-shaming.

The anonymity of the digital world allows online bullies to roam, sometimes without detection. This anonymity can also facilitate a “mob mentality” where anonymous users gang up on a victim rather than offering them help or support (Cybersmile Foundation, 2020).

To spread awareness on cyberbullying, Psych2Go is collaborating with Cybersmile Foundation – an award-winning nonprofit organization dedicated to tackling all forms of online abuse. Through awareness campaigns, educational programs, and support, Cybersmile offers hope to victims of cyberbullying and all digital users.

Let’s explore the signs that someone you know may be the victim of cyberbullying. Remember, while cyberbullying is often misconceived as a “teenage” problem, it can impact all age groups.

Here are 7 signs to look for:

1. Becoming withdrawn from friends or family

Being bullied online can be a distressing and isolating experience. If someone you know is a victim of online abuse such as slut-shaming or blackmail, they may become suspicious and mistrusting of others (Hinduja & Patchin, 2008).

The anonymity that online bullies hide behind can make it impossible for victims to know how to confront or cope with the abuse. Withdrawing from friends and family and not wanting to socialize is a common response to this.

2. A sudden change or break to social media use

If someone you know suddenly stops using their social media or online gaming, this may be cause for concern. Technology and social media are often all-consuming and even addicting activities. When someone we know puts an unexpected halt to their online activities, it is important to investigate further.

They may not necessarily stop using their phone or computer all together, but resort to deleting certain social media apps. They may also take an interest in safety features and start blocking certain users or accounts (Cybersmile Foundation, 2020).

3. Avoids discussion about what they are doing online

Someone being impacted by cyberbullying may express a sense of secrecy when it comes to their online activity. Maybe they close their computer or put their phone down when you enter the room. They may also be vague when you try to ask further questions about what site they are on or who they are talking to.

If you do not have normal discussions about online activities with your child, it may not be obvious when their behavior becomes elusive or mysterious. This is part of the reason why having an “open door” policy can be helpful to improving communication when issues arise (Cybersmile Foundation, 2020).

4. Signs of distress after using a mobile phone or computer

You may also notice a change of demeanor or mood after your child or someone else you know uses their phone or computer. They could appear angry, frustrated, and depressed (Hinduja & Patchin, 2008).

These signs can be challenging to spot. During the Covid-19 pandemic, our screen time may be higher than usual. The boundaries between screen time for work and play may also be blurred. This reality emphasizes the importance of looking for other signs and asking further questions.

5. Appears nervous or jumpy when they receive a text message or other online message

Depending on the types of threats someone is receiving, they may display fear or worry. Think about the threat of having embarrassing content exposed or having a group of online users ganging up on you at the same time. The helplessness related to this experience can induce significant fear and worry.

6. Lowered school attendance and performance

Experiencing online bullying is not just a “teenage issue” or a reality of being involved in the online world. Online bullying is a serious form of trauma that can affect all areas of one’s life. Given the invasiveness of social media, the stress seems inescapable. Living with this stress can make it difficult to focus on school or other social activities.

7. Unusual illness

The stress and trauma induced by cyberbullying can lead to health concerns such as difficulty sleeping or a loss of appetite. These issues can manifest into bouts of illnesses that could include headaches, stomachaches, or other health problems. These illnesses may arise when someone is trying to avoid school or public places that trigger stress related to cyberbullying (Cybersmile Foundation, 2020).

Each experience with cyberbullying is unique and everyone will cope differently. In any case, recognizing these signs can be critical to helping a victim receive help for the stress and trauma related to cyberbullying. Depending on the country you live in, cyberbullying is considered a criminal offense. With information and awareness, victims of cyberbullying can receive the legal, social, and psychological support they require.

Visit https://www.cybersmile.org/to access interactive education programs, connect to supports, and learn more.

References

The Cybersmile Foundation. (2020). Is my child being cyberbullied? Retrieved fromhttps://www.cybersmile.org/advice-help/category/is-my-child-being-cyberbullied

The Cybersmile Foundation. (2020). Resources for parents. Retrieved from https://www.cybersmile.org/advice-help/category/advice-parents

Hinduja, S., & Patchin, W. J. (2008). Cyberbullying warning signs. Cyber Bullying.http://csla2008.pbworks.com/f/cyberbullying_warning_signs.pdf