Protecting kids from cyberbullying

Online bullying often targets children, teenagers, and sometimes adults, and the impact can be severe. JUSTICE OKAMGBA writes on how to manage the situation

Cyberbullying is harassment or intimidation through digital platforms. It has become a growing concern for children and parents alike. It often manifests through hurtful messages, embarrassing photos, or malicious rumours.

The consequences can be severe, with victims experiencing anxiety, depression, and academic struggles.

Recognising the signs—such as emotional distress after device use, secrecy about online activities, and social withdrawal—is crucial in addressing the issue early.

A dating coach identified only as Anthony emphasised the importance of proactive measures over reactive responses.

“I think what is more important than what to do after the bullying is how to prepare in the first place,” he said.

Reflecting on his own childhood, he noted that many kids fear being labelled as “sissies” for reporting bullies or feel too embarrassed to admit they are being targeted.

Anthony suggested that establishing trust with children from an early age is key. “What if a strong foundation of trust is built between you and your child from an early age?

“What if you are able to speak so openly with your child, enabling them to feel the same openness towards you about their life?” he asked.

He believes that this trust empowers children to address issues before they escalate. “The best way to deal with a problem is to prepare and coach them from a young age,” he advised.

Statistics underscore the urgency of the issue. As of 2024, the World Health Organisation reports that approximately 15 per cent of adolescents experience cyberbullying, with boys (15 per cent ) and girls (16 per cent) affected similarly.

Another study shows that 26.5 per cent of students reported cyberbullying in the past 30 days—a troubling increase compared to previous years.

Middle and high school students are particularly vulnerable, with over 50 per cent having faced some form of cyberbullying.

Online safety adviser Addison Albert highlighted a multi-pronged approach to safeguarding children.

“Protecting kids from cyberbullying involves education, communication, and technology,” Albert said.

“If your child is being cyberbullied, don’t hesitate to seek help from school authorities, counsellors, or law enforcement if necessary. Take steps to support your child emotionally and help them navigate the situation.”

Albert also stressed the importance of open communication. “Encourage open dialogue with your kids about their online experiences. Let them know they can come to you if they encounter any problems, including cyberbullying.”

She outlined several strategies for parents: Educate them by teaching kids about cyberbullying, its forms, and its consequences.

“Make sure they understand what behaviours constitute cyberbullying and how to respond appropriately.

“Set rules by establishing clear guidelines for internet and social media use. Ensure your kids know what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour online.

“Monitor online activity by keeping an eye on your kids’ internet interactions, especially when they’re younger. Tools like Bark, mSpy, TheOneSpy, and OurPact can help track their interactions.

“In a digital age where bullying can extend beyond the schoolyard, preparation, awareness, and trust are essential defences against cyberbullying’s harmful effects,” she outlined.

In 2024, Facebook took action against 7.8 million pieces of content related to bullying and harassment, indicating a significant ongoing issue with cyberbullying on the platform.

Cyberbullying is also prevalent on TikTok, where 64 per cent of users reported experiencing bullying, according to Security.org, a cybersecurity firm.

Social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok remain critical areas where children face cyberbullying, reflecting a broader trend of increasing online harassment among adolescents.

Sharing her views on Quora, Nicola Nga described the challenges parents face in protecting their children from cyberbullying, recounting a personal experience involving her daughter.

Nga explained that her daughter was harassed by a group of girls from her school, stating, “These girls who tormented my daughter were absolutely vicious towards my child, and to this day, I’m still trying to figure out why they did what they did to her.”

She revealed that the bullying extended beyond the school environment and onto social media platforms.

“Not only did they make my daughter’s life hell at school, but they went the extra mile and used Facebook as their weapon,” Nga said.

The bullies posted explicit, edited photos, threats, and hurtful comments targeting her daughter.

Although Facebook eventually removed the content, Nga noted that the bullying persisted.

Frustrated with the lack of resolution, Nga decided to take action. “As a mother, I literally had enough. Something had to be done about these girls,” she said. When the school initially appeared reluctant to address the issue, Nga issued an ultimatum.

“I pretty much gave the school a choice—either they do something about this group of girls, or I take the evidence of three months of cyberbullying to higher authorities.”

Nga reported that the school changed its stance, realising the potential consequences. The outcome was that all eight girls involved were suspended and required to write letters of apology.

“To me, that still wasn’t enough justice, considering my daughter was emotionally traumatised for three months,” she admitted.

Reflecting on her daughter’s suffering, Nga said, “Seeing your child in so much pain as a parent really does get to you; all you want to do is take that pain away from them.”

Nga advised other parents to take similar steps if their child is being cyberbullied.

“I think the best thing to do would be to go to the school, have a meeting, and tell them what’s going on. If they aren’t helpful or supportive enough, then take things further,” she recommended.