Social media usage is a very complex issue for families, especially with the increase in access to younger children. The purpose of this blog series is to inform families, as well as, provide guidelines and practices that encourage online safety and responsible use of technology.
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is a form of emotional bullying that takes place entirely online. Primarily, on social media platforms and/or through devices such as phones, computers, and gaming consoles. Cyberbullying is typically meant to humiliate, embarrass, or discourage others by sharing personal or private information, or by degrading another person.
Cyberbullying is considered to be unlawful and/or criminal in some states and in some instances. Although there are no laws in California specific to cyberbullying, a person who is found guilty of cyberbullying can be charged with a misdemeanor.
Oftentimes, cyberbullying happens privately through text messages, messaging apps, or email, but many times it happens on a more public platform such as social media (Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, and video gaming chats) where there are severe repercussions.
Typically, many of the warning signs that Cyberbullying is happening, centers around their device.
Some of the warning signs that a child may be experiencing cyberbullying are:
Noticeable increases or decreases in device use, including texting.
Your child or adolescent exhibits noticeable emotional responses (rage, sadness, anger, upset) to what is happening on their device.
Your child hides their screen or device when others are near and avoids discussion about what they are doing on their device.
Social media accounts are shut down or new ones appear.
Your loved one starts to avoid social situations, even those activities that were enjoyed in the past.
Your loved one becomes withdrawn or depressed or loses interest in people, hobbies, and activities.
The physical symptoms of cyberbullying include, but are not limited to bouts of insomnia, loss of appetite resulting in weight gain or weight loss.
Your child is markedly increasing his or her screen time and most of this time is spent using social media platforms.
The child spends more time than they used to on popular social media applications (Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook).
The child becomes agitated when asked who / for what purpose they are communicating with on social media platforms.
If you would like to listen to Podcast that originally aired on this topic, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwNkjRgVQrsat
Additional Topics in this Series
What to Do When Cyberbullying Happens?
Asking for help with cyberbullying?
Setting healthy boundaries with social media
Am I addicted to TikTok?
Teaching your kid to be safe online.
Social media and mental health
How is social media impacting your self-esteem, anxiety, mood?
