Cyberbullying Is A Growing Problem

Cyberbullying Is A Growing Problem:

Technology has deeply transformed humankind’s culture and values. In just a few decades various technologies managed to permeate our society and thoroughly change our lives. Smartphones, the internet and social media (just to name a few) are now an integral part of our daily habits.

It’s not all fun and games, though. There is a darker side to this technological evolution, and it can have a devastating effect not only on our image online but on our everyday lives as well.

More youths experienced cyberbullying on Instagram than any other platform at 42 percent, with Facebook following close behind at 37 percent. Snapchat ranked third at 31 percent. While the survey participants use YouTube more than any other platform, the video-focused social media was only responsible for 10 percent of the reported cyberbullying.

What Are the Warning Signs of Cyberbullying?

There are many signs that can indicate that a child or teen is being affected by cyberbullying. Recognizing the warning signs is essential to taking action. Many young people will not tell their parents that they are being bullied.

If you have a child or a teen, you should be watching for these signs of them being cyberbullied:

1. Becomes angry or distressed when she is using her cell

phone or computer

2. Appears to be anxious when getting an email or IM

3. Avoids talking about her cell phone activities

4. Becomes more withdrawn from activities, hobbies, friends

and family

5. Grades drop for no apparent reason

6. Does not want to go to school or to certain classes

7. Shows rapid change in mood, sleep, appetite or behavior

Cyberbullying above all else is a people and behavior problem, and solutions require actions by all major stakeholders – parents, teenagers, children, school officials and other responsible adults in positions of authority and influence.

The most effective way to reduce and even eliminate the scourge of cyberbullying in society often comes down to education and taking official action where possible.

All parents, children, and teens need to understand what cyberbullying is, its costs and results, who are most likely to engage in it and be a victim. All parties must understand that cyberbullying is unacceptable and there are ways to stop it.

If you or someone you know is being bullied or cyberbullied, there are resources available that can help you right now. Please call one of these hotlines if you are in crisis:

Stop Bullying Now – Depression and Suicide Hotline:

1-800-273-8255

National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-784-2433

Self-Injury and Self-Mutilation Alternatives: 1-800-366-8288

Trevor Project – Suicide Prevention for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR.

Crossroads Opportunity

crossroadsopportunity.org