Teenagers and Cyber Bullying
Recognising and Stopping the Cycle
Are you wondering how to handle cyber bullying? If you are being bullied, you can read our blog to discover useful tips on how to stop cyber bullying. The harmful effects of bullying make it a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately.
What is Cyber Bullying?
Cyber bullying takes place when online communications are used to threaten or humiliate an individual. Name calling and public humiliation are common tactics of bullies. It’s important to know what cyber bullying is so that you can stop it immediately before the situation escalates. If you know what to look out for, you can support your friends if you notice that they are being bullied. Report the incidence and offer support to the victim. Don’t forward on hurtful messages about other people as it contributes to the problem.
How to stop cyber bullying?
- You can stop cyber bullying by asking for support from an adult that you trust. Consider talking to your parent, school counsellor or teacher. Block the bully from further communication immediately. Bullies are waiting for your reaction so it’s important not to respond to their harmful communications.
- Save the images or messages that they are using to bully you as evidence of their actions and record the date of the incidence. Don’t wait until the situation escalates. Make sure that you record the evidence even if it’s a minor incidence. Be polite online and don’t start rumours about other people as it increases the likelihood that you will be the target of cyber bullying.
- Avoid sharing personal information online that can be used by bullies against you. It’s important not to take explicit images of yourself as they can be used to publically humiliate you by bullies. If you need to talk about a personal issue with a friend, have a conversation with them face to face rather than communicating electronically.
The rise in use of technology has resulted in increased instances of cyber bullying so it is important to remain vigilant so that you can protect yourself from the harmful effects of bullying.
If you feel you have been a victim of cyber bullying and need support you can contact Life Counsel, Life Line or Stop Bullying SA.
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