Cyberbullying is a serious problem for tweens and teens nationwide. Up to 83% of teens will experience cyberbullying, either as a bully, victim, or witness. It is more important than ever for parents and educators to come together to prevent bullying (online and in-person) to help protect students.
Students have more options than ever before to stay connected with each other and communicate with strangers. Previously, students who were bullied at school could find relief at home or other safe spaces away from their bully. Today, students have smartphones and social media, allowing them to stay connected 24 hours a day—which means a cyberbully can continue the harassment no matter where the student goes.
These cyberbullying prevention techniques and tips from experts can help students protect themselves from cyberbullying and help adults understand how they can provide support.
What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying involves the use of digital technologies such as the internet, social media, and smartphones to harass, threaten, or purposely embarrass another person
There is often a power imbalance, which can be physically, socially, or intellectually
There is an intent to harm with cyberbullying, meaning it is not an accidental offense
True bullying is ongoing and not a one-time incident
What Types of Messages Do Cyberbullies Send?
Insults or name-calling - Messages that contain derogatory language aimed at belittling or shaming an individual
Public shaming - Messages that aim to embarrass or humiliate an individual in a public online space such as a social media platform, including sending embarrassing, sensitive, or private messages
Threats - Messages that include threats of harm or intimidation, attempting to instill fear in the victim
Manipulation - Messages that try to control or coerce an individual into doing something against their will
Harassment - A barrage of unwanted messages that may be aggressive, condescending, or offensive
Identity theft - Sending messages while pretending to be the victim, often to ruin their reputation or relationships
How Can You Avoid Becoming A Cyberbullying Victim?
Protect your personal information - Don’t make it easy for an online bully to target you. Keep your passwords and contact information private
Think before posting - Don’t post anything online unless you are comfortable with everyone seeing it
Choose your friends wisely - Only accept friend/follow requests from people you trust and know in person. Block anyone who is negative towards you
Establish good online boundaries - Decide how you want to be treated, and speak up when those boundaries are crossed so things don’t escalate
Focus on self-confidence - Showing confidence can often scare bullies away, but it can also help you recover from situations that would otherwise tear you down
Signs Your Student is Being Bullied Online
If you notice a change in your student's habits then that might be a sign your child is being bullied online.
Shows signs of aggression
Change in habits
Loses interest in activities they once enjoyed
Withdrawn, doesn’t want to talk
More resources for parents, students, & educators
Cyberbullying Prevention Tips: What Students & Parents Need to Know
How to Handle Cyberbullying (15 Experts Share Tips for Your Family)