Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying encompasses a wide range of online behaviors including, but not limited to: posting hurtful comments, spreading rumours, sending unsolicited images, having personal information shared without consent, online impersonation, and spreading of unkind photos/videos, etc. Cyberbullying is when someone uses technology to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person. It happens on devices like smartphones, computers, tablets, and gaming systems. Cyberbullying hurts people, and in some cases is against the law.

Cyberbullying sometimes takes place in the eyes of others online i.e. on a public post rather than private chats. When cyberbullying happens publicly, there are two types of people in the audience- Bystanders and Upstanders. A “Bystander” is anyone who sees the bullying, online or offline, but does not step in. Being an “Upstander” means taking action to stop it. Kids need to be encouraged to become upstanders. Some things that kids can do online to act as upstanders include: changing the focus of a negative conversation, expressing empathy toward the person being cyberbullied, checking in privately with the person being cyberbullied, reporting the cyberbullying to a trusted adult and/or to the website or app where it’s happening.

What are the signs of cyberbullying?

Many kids and teens who are cyberbullied are not willing to tell an adult often because they feel ashamed or fear that it might "just get worse" or fear that their devices will be taken away at home.

Here are some signs of cyberbullying:

• being emotionally upset during or after using the Internet or the phone
• being very secretive or protective of one's digital life
• spending more time than usual in their room
• withdrawal from or lack of interest in family members, friends, and activities
• avoiding school or group gatherings
• slipping grades and "acting out" in anger at home
• changes in mood, behavior, sleep, or appetite
• suddenly wanting to stop using the computer or device
• being nervous or jumpy when getting a message, text, or email
• avoiding discussions about computer or phone activities

How can adults help?

If a child is being cyberbullied

• Offer comfort and support. 
• Let the child know that it's not their fault. 
• Notify the school. 
• Encourage the child not to respond to cyberbullying or to block the bully.
• Keep screen shots of the threatening messages, pictures, and texts. These can be used as evidence with the bully's parents, school, employer, or even the police.
• Get help from therapists or counsellor's if the child agrees. 
• Limit access to technology. 
• Monitor use of social media using monitoring apps and programs. 
• Know what sites the child uses. Be part of the kids' online world by "following" or "friending" them. 
• Put it in writing have a smartphone and social media contract with the kids.