How Cyberbullying Affects Teens

Recently, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy pushed for actions to ensure social media environments are healthy and safe amidst the ongoing national youth mental health crisis.

“The most common question parents ask me is, ‘Is social media safe for my kids’. The answer is that we don’t have enough evidence to say it’s safe, and in fact, there is growing evidence that social media use is associated with harm to young people’s mental health…

Children are exposed to harmful content on social media, ranging from violent and sexual content to bullying and harassment. For too many children, social media use is compromising their sleep and valuable in-person time with family and friends…

We are in the middle of a national youth mental health crisis, and I am concerned that social media is an important driver of that crisis – one that we must urgently address.”

What is Cyberbullying?

According to StopBullying.gov, “Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, Text, and apps, or online in social media, forums, or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation. Some cyberbullying crosses the line into unlawful or criminal behavior.”

Where Does Cyberbullying Occur?

• Social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok
• Text messaging and messaging apps on mobile or tablet devices
• Instant messaging, direct messaging, and online chatting over the internet
• Online forums, chat rooms, and message boards, such as Reddit
• Email
• Online gaming communities

How Does Cyberbullying Differ From Other Forms Of Bullying?

Many associate the term “bullying” with physical fights on playgrounds or shoving matches in hallways. However, bullying cannot be defined so restrictively anymore. Cyberbullying brings unique concerns compared to other types of bullying, as it can be:

• Anonymous: People can conceal their identities when they are online.
• Persistent: People can send messages instantly, at any time of the day or night.
• Permanent: Electronic communication is often permanent and public unless reported and removed. A poor online reputation can impact college admissions, employment opportunities, and other life aspects. This applies to the bully as well.
• Hard to Monitor: Teachers and parents may not overhear or see cyberbullying taking place.

Cyberbullying Statistics

Consider these alarming statistics about cyberbullying and its impact on students today.

• 95% of teens have access to a smartphone. -Pew Research Center
• 46% of teens in the U.S. have been bullied or harassed online, with physical appearance being seen as a relatively common reason why. –Pew Research Center
• Adolescents who experienced cyberbullying were more than 4X as likely to report thoughts of suicide and attempts as those who didn’t. –National Institutes of Health
• 46% of girls and 43% of boys experienced a reduction in bullying after smartphone bans were enacted. -Smartphone Bans, Student Outcomes and Mental Health
• 92% of Americans think cyberbullying is a problem. -Pew Research Center

How To Talk To Your Teen About Cyberbullying

1. Identify Cyberbullying: It may manifest as cruel comments, circulating rumors, sharing humiliating pictures, or deliberately leaving someone out. Make sure to teach the students in your life that if they witness any of these actions, it’s crucial to take them seriously. Recognizing these as negative behaviors is the first step towards resolving them.
2. Ignore Cyberbullying: If a teenager is being cyberbullied, it is strongly recommended not to respond as it can escalate the situation. Instead, adhere to the following steps:
   • Inhale deeply to calm down.
   • Preserve the proof by capturing screenshots.
   • Block the individual who is bullying.
3. Speak to a Trusted Adult: Adolescents experiencing cyberbullying should not and need not, face this situation alone. Maintain regular discussions with your child about the issue, consistently reassuring them of your unwavering support and your willingness to help manage the situation.
4. Promote Kindness: If your teenager isn’t the one facing online bullying but observes someone else experiencing it, encourage them to be an UPSTANDER against cyberbullying. Kindness holds immense power and standing up for someone can make a significant difference. What this means:
   • Stand up for the individual if it’s safe.
   • Privately offer support to the person being bullied, assuring them they are not alone.
   • Encourage them to seek help and support from a parent or trusted adult.
5. Spread Positivity: Your teen can be a part of positive change against cyberbullying. Encourage them to spread positivity online by complimenting someone, sharing encouraging messages on their platform, and being the person who makes others feel good. We all play a part in making the internet a kinder place.

YES Cyberbullying Prevention Programs

Are you interested in learning more about our student cyberbullying prevention programs? If so, please send us a message via our Book Now page. A member of our YES team will reach out to you within one business day.

YES Motivational Moments Mini Video Series

PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS: Watch this video with the child in your life and then download the discussion guide to help you start a conversation on cyberbullying.