In the current digital age, the internet has become an integral part of our children’s lives, which offers limitless opportunities for them to learn, entertain and socialize. However, as much as it provides convenience and ease, it has also introduced new challenges which includes the pervasive issue of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is unlike traditional bullying which may occur in school or during interaction with other children where it can follow them into our own homes. It can make our children’s lives a relentless ordeal and be unable to escape the torments. Let us explore what are the effects that cyberbullying has on children and how we can help safeguard our children from them.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is usually done through the use of electronic devices such as smartphones and digital platforms to harass, threaten, or humiliate a child. Sending messages that may hurt others, spreading rumours that are not true or even to the creation of fake profiles to intimidate or manipulate children can be some of the forms that cyberbullying can take. The anonymity provided by the internet often emboldens bullies, making their actions more relentless and damaging.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
The emotional toll of cyberbullying on children could be severe and have a long-lasting effect on our children. Victims often experience a range of negative emotions, including:
Depression and Anxiety: Being exposed to negative comments and threats can lead to severe depression and anxiety. As adults, we may also feel the same way when being exposed to the same words on a daily basis. Children who may not know of any mechanism to defend themselves with may feel trapped and helpless, unable to escape the agony.
Low Self-Esteem: Should the children be exposed to repeated attacks daily on their character and self-worth can erode self-esteem. They may not be able to show any confidence in themselves, leading to feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt.
Social and Academic Consequences
Not only does Cyberbullying affect children emotionally, but it could also have a significant impact on their social and academic performances.
Being Isolated: Children may withdraw from social interactions as they may fear of being judged or others bullying them as well. This may lead to the child being lonely and having the lack of support from their friends in school.
Academic Decline: As the children may be focused on the stress and anxiety that is caused by the cyberbullying, they will find it hard to focus and concentrate during the classes. Without the proper motivation, this would lead to the decline of their academic performance and also may not want to attend school.Taking Action
Addressing cyberbullying requires a collective effort from everyone which includes us as parents, communities and schools. Here are some steps that we can take as a community:
Education about Cyberbullying: It is vital for us to educate our children about what is cyberbullying through simple simulation or making them aware of how such bullying can impact their friends or those around them. Creating the awareness within our children will help them instill empathy and kindness not only in the digital environment but during their day-to-day lives as well.
Support Systems: Be there for the ones who were affected by cyberbullying. Victims would need support systems such as counselling or peer support systems which may be available around the community or at schools. Through the support, they will be able to cope with the emotional impact that cyberbullying caused.
Reporting Systems: Encouraging children to report cyberbullying incidents to trusted adults, school authorities, or online platforms can help address the issue and hold bullies accountable. It is crucial for us to investigate into such reports as it may happen to other children as well.
Cyberbullying is a serious issue that can have profound and lasting effects on our children. As parents, we need to understand the impact of cyberbullying and take proactive steps to address it. This will ensure that we create a safer and more supportive online environment for our children. Remember, kindness and empathy go a long way in making the digital world a better place for our children. Till then, Hope you learn
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