“Cyber bullies can hide behind a mask of anonymity online, and do not need direct physical access to their victims to do unimaginable harm.”
– Anna Marcia Chavez
With lockdown still a reality, students have been turning to the Internet to stay connected. As useful as the Internet is, not all children are aware of the
dangers that the digital world imposes. What happens when innocent gestures like sharing one’s contact details leads to a traumatic case of cyberbullying? How can you help your child maintain an online social distance from cyber bullies? We’re here to guide you through it.
What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place online. Even though it can’t be physical violence, it can be
detrimental to one’s mental health. Cyberbullying can easily occur on digital platforms through social media apps, texts and online gaming platforms.
Cyberbullying includes:
• Sending cruel, harsh or humiliating messages to someone.
• Forwarding embarrassing videos or photos to people.
• Sending unwanted sexual messages or images to people.
• Making abusive comments about someone. This includes homophobic, racist, transphobic or sexist remarks.
How Can I Help My Child If They're Experiencing Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying can be difficult to control, but with the right steps it can be tackled. If you become aware that your child is being cyberbullied, follow these four steps to help them deal with the problem.
1. Talk To Them And Listen To What They Have To Say
It’s important to remember not to patronise your child. Instead, make them feel as if the power is in their hands and that you’re there to support them every step of the way.
2.Collect Evidence And Access The Situation
Once your child shares their cyberbullying experience, it’s time to assess the situation and collect evidence. Keeping a record of all interactions with the perpetrator is vital. Be vigilant from the beginning. Ask your child to screenshot anything offensive. This will be your evidence when reporting cyberbullying cases to site administrators, teachers, principals and to the police.
3. Report And Block
Enough is enough. Immediately block the perpetrator and then report them to site administrators. Site administrators are there to help support and protect people from online abuse.
If the cyberbully goes to the same school as your child, then be sure to report the case to your child’s teacher and principle.
4. Make Sure They Feel Safe
Be sure to protect your child’s online presence. Ensuring that your child’s social media platforms have a high privacy setting is a priority. This will help keep your child in control of who they’re talking to and who has access to view their social profiles.
It’s important to keep in mind that whilst the internet imposes a dark side, there are ways to avoid it. Here are some pro tips on how you can help protect your child on social media. Follow this social media profile example to ensure that your child’s online presence is protected.
Standing side by side with your child during a traumatic experience such as cyberbullying will help make them feel safer. It will also allow them to have the courage to speak up about other issues that they may face. Together, you can take on and overcome any challenge.
Remember:
“Being challenged in life is inevitable, but being defeated is optional”
–
Roger Crawford.
