Cyber bullying is the newest type of bullying that is affecting kids and teens across the world, causing depression, emotional problems, anxiety and in some cases even suicide. Any form of bullying can have serious consequences, however, cyber bullying can be particularly dangerous because of the high reach and emotional impact that it carries mostly that of humiliation that the bullied party feels among its peers.
As a parent, being constantly alert of the signs that might indicate that a child is a victim of cyber bullying might help to control and take action. For instance, if your child drastically changes his / her networking and internet usage habits and starts spending much more (or less) time on social networking websites, asks to have a social media account shut down, seems withdrawn, upset, or outraged after texting or being online, suddenly avoids formerly enjoyable social situations or blocks a number or an email address from their account… then probably your child is experiencing a form of online bullying.
Below are a few steps that you may consider in order to protect your child against cyber bullying:
– Make sure you are clear with your child about the house rules governing internet usage, i.e. how many hours per day or week your child is allowed to use internet for. Also explore with them the issue of internet addiction and the risks of using it excessively.
– Encourage an open dialogue and build trust, encourage your child to inform you about their online activities, stay alert of the signs that might indicate cyber bullying activities. Let your teen know that if they do start to experience cyber-bullying or inappropriate contacts by people, who may expose them to dangerous situations that they can come to you for support.
– Educate them about cyber-bullying behavior, make your children aware that cyber-bullying exists and leads to hurtful endeavors and provide examples of real life situations.
– Help them understand their privacy settings and help them consider being cautious about what they post and what they share seeing as the restrictions around information on the internet are somewhat lax and can be override.
– Discourage your child from responding to cyber bullying behavior, there is a chance that if the bully gets no reaction, he or she will cease his/her bullying behavior.
– Blocking cyber bullying attacks on the phone and computer in order to prevent the receipt of inappropriate messages. Provide the supportive environment that will allow your child to identify the person or people who are engaging in the bullying behavior, however, keep in mind that the identity of the cyber bully may remain anonymous in many cases especially if the cooperation of the concerned authorities is not sought out.
– Get the community involved, for example by starting campaigns, holding discussion forums etc., take a stand against bullying by uniting students, teachers, parents, and the community at large and talk about it.
– If cyber bullying is harassing and threatening, take legal action to protect your child and others by contacting the local authorities and make sure to save all the messages and pictures that were used to bully your child.
Doing what you can to prevent your child from being a victim is vital.
Linda
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