Effect of Cyberbullying on Children

Cyber Bullying is common in children, as they have less maturity. So, let us talk about effects of Cyberbullying on children.

• Effects of Cyberbullying on Children :

Any type of bullying can have physical and psychological effects on a child. Anxiety, fear, depression, low self-esteem, behavioral issues, and academic struggles are just of the few challenges kids may experience if they are targets. Cyberbullying, however, may be particularly damaging.

There are several possible reasons for this. For example, unlike traditional bullying—which is often limited to school and known bullies—cyberbullying can occur at any time, day or night, and be perpetrated by anonymous sources. This makes it more relentless and, often, more cruel.

Even the type of victimization may impact the severity of its consequences. For instance, one study found that online pictures and posts were more damaging than harassment received through text messaging or phone calls.

While cyberbullying can happen in a public digital space, like on social media post, it can also take the form of private messages—leaving some kids managing this secret, and its effect on them, alone.

Being aware of all of the effects of cyberbullying cannot only help you support a child you know is affected, but help you become more aware of signs that may be reason for concern—and a conversation.

There are basically four effects of cyberbullying on children

1. Emotional Effects

2. Mental Effects

3. Behavioral Effects 

4. Physical Effects 

1. Emotional Effects

Not surprisingly, cyberbullying is a significant stressor in a young person's life. In fact, research shows that 32% of kids who are targets of cyberbullying report experiencing at least one symptom of stress.

In addition to feeling distressed, they also may feel embarrassed, hurt, and even fear for their safety. They may even blame themselves for the cyberbullying.

 Here the child shows some specific emotions :

1.Humiliation

2.Isolation

3.Anger

4.Powerlessness

1. Humiliation

Because cyberbullying occurs in cyberspace, online bullying feels permanent. Kids know that once something is out there, it will always be out there. They can feel exposed, embarrassed, and overwhelmed.

When cyberbullying occurs, the nasty posts, messages, or texts can be shared with multitudes of people. The sheer volume of people that know about the bullying can lead to intense feelings of humiliation.

2. Isolation

Cyberbullying sometimes causes kids to be excluded and ostracized at school. Consequently, they often feel alone and isolated. This experience can be particularly painful because friends are crucial at this age. When kids don’t have friends, this can lead to more bullying.

When cyberbullying occurs, parents sometimes recommend shutting off the computer or turning off the cell phone. But for many kids, using these devices is considered the most important way they communicate with others. Turning them off often means cutting off their connection with their world, which can make them feel more secluded.

3. Anger 

Many victims of cyberbullying will get angry about what is happening to them. In fact, research indicates that anger is the most common response to cyberbullying (followed by being upset and worried).

Some kids that are victimized may even plot revenge and engage in retaliation. Aside from the trouble they could get into, this approach is dangerous because it can keep them locked in the bully-victim cycle.

While it's always better to forgive a bully than it is to get even, this is often easier said than done. If your child seems intensely angry over cyberbullying, it may help for them to speak with a counselor or therapist who can teach them to channel that anger in productive ways.

4. Powerlessness

Victims of cyberbullying often find it difficult to feel safe. They may feel vulnerable and powerless. Typically, these feelings surface because the online bullying can invade their home through a computer or cell phone at any time of day. They no longer have a place where they can escape.

Additionally, because the bullies can remain anonymous, this realization may escalate feelings of fear. Sometimes kids who are targeted may have no idea who is inflicting the pain, although some cyberbullies choose people they know and have no problem identifying themselves.

That's all for Emotional effects , in our next blog we will talk about Mental and Behavioral Effects.