CYBERBULLYING
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying or electronic bullying is a form of violence through email, text or online networks. Formally, we define it as “willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices”.
Cyberbullying behaviour can be considered if contains those factors:
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Willful: The behavior has to be deliberate, not accidental.
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Repeated: Bullying reflects a pattern of behavior, not just one isolated incident.
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Harm: The target must perceive that harm was inflicted.
Statistics
In 2019, about 15.8 percent of students ages 12–18 reported being bullied online or by text. - National Crime Victimization Survey ( 2019)
The percentage of students reporting this behavior in the United States did not change from 2011 to 2019 in overall.
Negative effects
1. Emotional & Mental Effect
Victims of cyberbullying may succumb to anxiety, depression, and other stress-related conditions.
The added stress of coping with cyberbullying on a regular basis can steal their feelings of happiness and contentment. It also can increase feelings of worry and isolation.
2. Physical Effect
The stress of bullying also can cause or worsen conditions like upset stomach, abdominal pain, and stomach ulcers.
Besides, kids who are cyberbullied may experience changes in eating habits like skipping meals or binge eating leading to eating disorders. Moreover, they may suffer from sleep issues like insomnia, sleeping more than usual, or nightmares.
3. Behaviour Effect
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Kids who are cyberbullied may display the same behavioral changes as those who are bullied in more traditional ways. For example, they exhibit a loss of interest in activities and engage in secretive behavior.
In extreme cases, or when cyberbullying is prolonged, kids sometimes even exhibit more significant behavioral changes, including: Using drug or alcohols, skipping school, carrying a weapon or even attempt to suicide.
