To better understand
Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that takes place in the online world. It can take the form of insults, belittling, rumors or threats. Some teens even take it a step further by posting pictures or videos of their peers online to hurt them or publicly humiliate them. The anonymity of cyberspace can make some teens feel free to behave unacceptably online.
But like actual bullying, it can have devastating effects on teens, causing victims to experience a decrease in their self-esteem, social isolation, stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression. It can also make them feel helpless because of the public—and potentially permanent—nature of the posts about them. But cyberbullying doesn’t only affect the victims; it also affects the witnesses, the teens who are doing the cyberbullying, and the people around them.
There are ways to prevent and fight back against this issue. And as a parent, you have a major role to play!
Statistics
- 13 % of teens report having been cyberbullied at least once during the school year;
- Cyberbullying is more common among girls (17%) than among boys (10%).
Be there for my teen
Tips and tricks
- When the situation comes up in movies or TV shows, take the opportunity to talk to your teen about cyberbullying. For example, ask them how they’d react if their friend was being cyberbullied and what they could do to help.
- Ask your teen what they think about certain online comments or behaviours. For example, you might ask them: “Do you think it would be okay to say that to someone standing right in front of you?” If they say no, then it’s not okay online either!
In short
- Unfortunately, cyberbullying is a reality for some teens. And as a parent, you have a major role to play in preventing and fighting it.
- Whether you’re helping your teen to develop their personal and social skills, guiding them through the digital world, or building trust and respect at home, you’re helping to prevent cyberbullying.
- If your teen confides in you about cyberbullying, thank them for trusting you, show them kindness and compassion, and listen to them without judging them. Then come up with a game plan to stop the cyberbullying. Don’t hesitate to reach out to outside resources for help (school staff, health and social services professionals).
Practical resources and tools
1. To support you :
You are dealing with a situation that worries you? Ask for help:
2. For more information :
- Cyberbullying (Éducaloi)
- Cyberbullying (Tel-Jeunes Parents)
- INSPQ : La cyberintimidation vécue par les jeunes (Franch only)
If you fear for your teen’s or your own safety, call 911 or your local police department.
The police service can also be a helpful resource, especially regarding the prevention of street gangs, violence, bullying, delinquency, and other offenses.
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