‘CYBERBULLYING IS OFTEN MORE HIDEOUS AND INSIDIOUS’

The nature of cyberbullying is that it’s often under the radar of parents and schools and can be very much ‘hidden in plain sight’. This can make it a complex challenge for parents as often young people become secretive and protective of their cyber world. As a result, it can lead to family conflict between parent and child, because parents’ worry levels are heightened and the child becomes increasingly defensive.

The emotional effects can continue

Any form of bullying seriously depletes a person’s confidence levels. This can lead to longterm problems such as low self-esteem, weight issues and even complex issues focused around food. Furthermore, cyberbullying can impact a child’s academic potential, harming chances of future career success and ultimately even financial security.

In fact, missed opportunities not taken in life can often be traced back to childhood events, as can relationship difficulties in adulthood.

A heightened level of danger

All bullying, regardless of where it takes place is dangerous. In the case of cyberbullying however, it is often more hidden and insidious and therefore more difficult to spot at an early stage, leading to the possibility that it has been taking place for some time before anyone finds out. Of course, some cyberbullying actually happens in the public domain and we all have a collective duty to stand up to it when we see it happening to others.

Cyberbullying may affect girls more

In my experience girls are much more likely to suffer at the hands of cyberbullies. In general, girls seem to be more susceptible to comments about their physical appearance (though, this is not to minimise the problem for boys too). During the teenage years, it appears to me that girls’ peer groups are often more fluid and fractious and this can be exploited by cyberbullies, especially those seeking power within a peer group. I have generalised here as this is a complex issue and at times requires expert intervention.

Parents can protect their teens on social media

Openness, dialogue and communication are the watchwords of effective teen parenting. Cultivating the environment where your teen can ‘open up to you’ is paramount. It is also vital that parents understand how social media works and are fully conversant with the security protections that do exist. Be vigilant, but not overly intrusive into their world as that can be suffocating. Being a good parent is like walking a tightrope; balance is everything.