While the internet offers countless opportunities for connection and learning, it also poses a growing threat: cyberbullying. It is the use of digital platforms to harass, humiliate, or harm others.
So, what is cyberbullying? What is the connection between cyberbullying and self-esteem? In this article, you can learn the cyberbullying definition and how to spot its signs and support a child through this difficult experience.
What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying happens when bullying takes place through digital devices like phones, computers, or tablets. It can occur via text messages, apps, or on social media, forums, or gaming sites.
It may include sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, or mean content about someone else, as well as sharing personal or private information about someone else for the purpose of humiliation.
Is cyberbullying a crime? Yes, it can be considered a crime, depending on the nature of the actions involved. In many places, cyberbullying, which includes harassment, threats, defamation, or sharing private information without consent, can be subject to legal consequences. Laws vary by country and state, but if the behavior involves criminal acts like stalking, impersonation, or threats of violence, it may lead to criminal charges.
The Link Between Cyberbullying and Self-Esteem
Self-esteem influences a child’s overall development, including their relationships, academic performance, and mental well-being. A child with healthy self-esteem is more likely to be confident, resilient, and socially well-adjusted.
However, when a child is subjected to cyberbullying, their sense of self-worth can be shattered. In this case, an informative neurodivergent test can provide some insights. The reason is for neurodivergent children, this impact of cyberbullying can be even more pronounced, as they may struggle with additional challenges in processing emotional stress.
Constant online harassment can leave a lasting emotional toll, leading to feelings of loneliness, sadness, and anxiety.
Cyberbullying is particularly damaging to a child’s self-esteem for several reasons:
Constant Accessibility: Cyberbullying can happen anywhere, at any time, in contrast to traditional bullying, which is limited to particular places, such as schools. The victim has a little break from the harassment because of this ongoing accessibility, which makes it hard for them to feel secure or appreciated.
The anonymity of the Bully: The anonymity offered by the internet often emboldens perpetrators of cyberbullying. They can target their victims without fear of immediate repercussions, which can make the bullying feel more intense and overwhelming.
Public Humiliation: Online platforms allow cyberbullies to humiliate their victims in front of a wide audience. Negative comments, embarrassing photos, or hurtful messages can spread quickly, causing lasting damage to a child’s reputation and self-image.
The Signs of Cyberbullying
Because it often happens in private spaces, such as through social media or text messages, the victim may not always vocalize their distress. However, a number of emotional and behavioral shifts could indicate the existence of cyberbullying:
Withdrawal from Social Activities: Children who experience cyberbullying may isolate themselves from friends and family and become more reclusive. Additionally, they could stop taking part in sports or extracurricular activities that they used to like.
Declining Academic Performance: They may be experiencing emotional distress if their academic performance suddenly declines. A child who experiences cyberbullying may find it difficult to focus on their homework, which could result in poorer grades and a lack of desire.
Mood and Behavior Changes: Anxiety, despair, and mood swings are frequently brought on by cyberbullying. A child may become more irritable, anxious, or fearful, particularly when they are online or when discussing social media. What is the connection between cyberbullying and self-esteem here? The child may also exhibit signs of low self-esteem, such as making self-deprecating comments or expressing feelings of worthlessness.
Physical Symptoms: The emotional toll of cyberbullying can manifest in physical symptoms. Children who are bullied online may experience headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping. In some cases, they may even show signs of self-harm or other destructive behaviors.
Reluctance to Use Technology: If a child who once enjoyed spending time online suddenly becomes hesitant or fearful of using their phone, computer, or social media, it could be a sign that they are being cyberbullied.
Verbal Cues: Phrases like “No one likes me,” “I don’t want to go to school,” or “Everyone is making fun of me online” should not be ignored, as they may be indicators of deeper issues.
Providing Support to a Child Affected by Cyberbullying
If you think a child is being cyberbullied, you need to deal with the situation quickly and sensitively. Supporting a child who is being cyberbullied needs a balanced approach of emotional support, practical help, and open communication.
Create a Safe Space
The first step in supporting a child who is being cyberbullied is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for them to talk about what’s happened. Ask your child to tell you how they are feeling, and tell them they are not to blame for the bullying. Listen without judgment or anger, and they will feel validated and supported.
Collect Evidence
It’s important to collect evidence of cyberbullying. Ask your child to save screenshots, messages, or photos that show the bullying. This evidence will be helpful when reporting to the authorities or to the platform where the bullying is happening.
Contact Schools or Authorities
Many schools have policies in place for cyberbullying. If the bullying is happening through school platforms or with classmates, contact the school and work with them to sort it out. In more severe cases, or if the bullying is threatening harm, you may need to involve the police.
Keep an Eye on Online Activity
While you need to respect a child’s privacy, monitoring their online activity can keep you informed of the risks they face. Setting boundaries, such as limiting screen time or rules for social media use, can also protect your child from further harm.
Encourage Positive Online Behavior
Teach your child about online etiquette and the importance of kindness and respect in digital spaces. Encouraging them to block or report any users who engage in cyberbullying can help them regain a sense of control over their online experience.
Boost Self Esteem
Helping your child rebuild their self-esteem after being cyberbullied is key to the recovery process. Get them involved in activities that promote a positive self image, sports, creative hobbies or volunteering. Praise their strengths and achievements to remind them of their worth. Help them develop ways to manage stress and negative emotions.
Get Professional Help
In some cases, the emotional impact of cyberbullying will need professional intervention. A counselor or therapist can help children process their emotions, build resilience, and develop coping strategies for the long-term effects of bullying.
