5 Ways to Empower Your Teen to Combat Online Harassment

Is/If Your Child is withdrawing or avoiding activities they used to enjoy, or their academic performance is dropping, outburst of anger, showing heightened irritability, or having nightmares, they might be experiencing Online Harassment or Cyberbullying

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying happens when someone uses the internet or digital technology to hurt, threaten, or embarrass others. It can occur through social media, text messages, online games, or emails, often anonymously.

Causes and Reasons for Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can stem from various reasons:

1. Anonymity: Hiding their identity online, making it easy to target others without getting caught.
2. Revenge: They feel they’ve been wronged, and want to feel powerful again.
3. Peer Pressure: Doing bullying to fit in or be accepted by their friends.
4. Lack of Empathy: They don’t understand how much they hurt others, not understanding their feelings.
5. Social Dynamics: Jealousy, competition, or wanting attention can push people to bully others online.

How can I find out, If my child is being bullied online?

Often cyber bullied children and teen show the following symptoms

• Distress and Anxiety: Showing worry or fear, especially when using digital devices or online.
• Depression and Mood Changes: Sudden mood swings, persistent sadness, or losing interest in activities.
• Sleep Problems: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or frequent nightmares related to online experiences.
• Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions, spending excessive time alone, or isolating themselves from friends and family.
• Low Self-Esteem: Negative self-talk, reduced confidence, or feelings of worthlessness.
• Academic Decline: Noticeable drop in school performance, lack of focus, or difficulty concentrating.
• Anger and Irritability: Unexplained outbursts of anger, increased irritability, or moodiness.
• Loss of Interest: Suddenly avoiding activities they once enjoyed or showing disinterest in hobbies.
• Relationship Issues: Strained relationships with family or friends, reluctance to discuss online interactions.
• Self-Harm: Unexplained injuries, signs of self-inflicted harm like hitting oneself, or talking about self-harm.

How can You help your Child battle Cyberbullying?

Show Unconditional Love: Assure your child that they are loved and valued, irrespective of the bullying they face. Engage other family members in providing positive reinforcement and genuine compliments.

Prepare For Life: Teach children that bullying may persist throughout various stages of life. Equip them with skills to:

• Not be affected by bullying.

• Maintain self-confidence.

• Choose supportive friends.

• Stand up for themselves.

Encouraging Peer Support: Encourage your child’s friends to stand up against bullies. Peer support is often more effective than adult intervention, which can sometimes exacerbate the situation.

Blocking and Reporting: Immediately block online bullies and report abusive behaviour to the relevant authorities or platforms.

Evidence Collection: Document all instances of cyberbullying as evidence for potential legal action.

Online Safety Tools: Use content filters and privacy settings to protect your child from harmful content and interactions.

Reducing Online Presence: Encourage offline activities to limit exposure to cyberbullying.

Open Communication & Quality Time: Spend at least 20 minutes twice a week doing an activity your child enjoys. This fosters a strong, open relationship.

Daily Check-Ins: Know your child’s routine and interests. Discuss their daily activities and show genuine interest, creating a safe space for them to share concerns.

Professional Help:

Seeking professional help is essential when cyberbullying starts to adversely affect a child’s mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. Early intervention can prevent long-term psychological damage and help the child develop resilience and coping mechanisms to handle similar situations in the future. Book your first session at Next Generation Nation’s Learning (NGN Learning) or find printable resources here.