If your child is old enough to have their own social media account, then they’re old enough to be a victim of cyberbullying. If your child has their own electronic device, and a social media account, the odds are that they’ll fall victim to cyberbullying at least once. Unfortunately, children aren’t always quick to tell parents when they’re being cyberbullied. In fact, most children will retreat inside themselves and try to handle the problem for themselves, often with devastating consequences. Here are four ways to tell if your child is the victim of cyberbullying.
Your Child Has Shut Down a Social Media Account
If your child has suddenly shut down one of their favorite social media accounts or has asked you to do it for them, there’s a good chance that they’re being cyberbullied. Children who are being cyberbullied will often shut down accounts as a way to avoid the traumatic encounters.
Your Child Appears to be Withdrawn After Social Media Activity
If your child appears to become withdrawn after social media activity, it’s time to talk to them about cyberbullying. The fact that they’re withdrawn after activity on their social media accounts could indicate that they’re being victimized.
Your Child No Longer Participates in School Activities
If your child used to enjoy school activities, but now prefers to avoid them, they may be the victim of cyberbullying. Children will often go to any measure to avoid the individuals who are harassing them online. They may even start missing school altogether, often claiming illness as a way to avoid their bullies. If your child is avoiding school, including extracurricular activities, you need to talk to them about cyberbullying. Here are some tips that will help you recognize the signs of cyberbullying.
Your Child Has Become Protective of Their Electronic Devices
If your child used to leave their electronic devices out for anyone to see, but they’ve recently become more protective of them, there’s a strong chance that they’re being victimized by cyberbullies. This is particularly true if your child has suddenly placed a screen lock on their cell phone. Children who are victims of cyberbullying don’t want their families to see what they’re dealing with, which means they’ll take measures to protect their devices. If you’ve noticed this with your child, you need to discuss cyberbullying with them.
Don’t let cyberbullying destroy your child’s life. If you recognize any of the warning signs described above, you need to take measures to help your child as soon as possible.
Here are a couple more articles to keep in mind when thinking about this delicate subject. You can find them here, and here.
References:
Who is Hosting This? | Cyberbullying: Why it Matters and How to Protect Your Kids
Bradley Corbett Criminal Defense | Be on the Lookout for These 7 Types of Cybercrime!
Live Health Online | 4 Things to Tell Your Kids about Cyberbullying
The Law Dictionary | What Are The Consequences Of Cyberbullying?
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