Technology, such as social media, games, and apps, can be great to connect with friends, but they can also be a place where hurtful words and actions can spread fast. With kids back in school, this is the time to remind the young people in our lives to think before they post and consider the effect of their words.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is when kids bully each other through electronic technology. Examples include mean text messages or emails, rumors sent by email or posted on social networking sites, and embarrassing pictures, videos, websites, or fake profiles. It is repeated behavior, aimed at scaring, angering, or shaming those who are targeted.
Students and youth who are cyberbullied are more likely to:
- use alcohol and drugs
- skip school
- experience in-person bullying
- be unwilling to attend school
- receive poor grades
- have low self-esteem
- experience health problems like stress, depression, and anxiety
What can parents do?
Listen and focus on your child. Assure them that bullying is not their fault and work together to resolve the situation. And don’t forget, you can always talk to your healthcare provider for advice and ideas on helping the younger people in our lives. You can connect with the amazing team at Northern Light Acadian Hospital by clicking HERE.