One of the dangers of the internet and digital devices is cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is typically the anonymous, electronic posting of mean-spirited messages about someone.1 This threat occurs when a person uses technology to demean or harm another.2 It is an intentional, aggressive act carried out using electronic forms of contact repeatedly against a victim who cannot easily defend themselves.
"Educating children on the effects of online bullying is just as important as teaching them how to react if they are being bullied in person."
Who is at risk of being bullied online?
Cyberbullying affects people of all genders, ages, and ethnicities. Studies show 49.5% of boys and 59.2% of girls aged 13-17 have experienced cyberbullying.3
What are the dangers of cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying can hurt the online reputations of everyone involved – not just the person being bullied, but also those participating in the bullying.3 Most data communicated digitally is public and permanent if not reported or removed. A negative online reputation can impact one’s future. This can influence college admissions, job seeking, etc.4 Cyberbullying is often difficult for adults to notice as they may not see or overhear what is happening. Cyberbullying victims often experience intense emotional and mental turmoil. Sadly, those being bullied can have difficulty finding an escape, because digital devices allow for continuous communication.
How do you help kids who are being bullied online?
Teaching kids about online safety is crucial. Even online words have the power to be harmful. Educating children on the effects of online bullying is just as important as teaching them how to react if they are being bullied in person. Ensure they feel safe talking to an adult and know about dealing with strangers. If a child is distraught by cyberbullying, they might try to run away, or a malicious adult may attempt to lure them away from home. In these cases, having important information about your child could help the authorities when minutes matter.
Cyberbullying is not just unwanted text messages.
Among students who have experienced cyberbullying, it was reported that 77.5% had someone post hurtful or mean things about them online.3 The next most common forms of cyberbullying are: spreading rumors (70.4%), embarrassment or humiliation (69.1%), and intentional exclusion from a group chat (66.4%).3 Repeated contact via text or online platforms after being asked to stop was experienced in 55.5% of cases.3
What can be done to help prevent cyberbullying?
A safer digital world may be on the horizon as lawmakers and social media platforms continue efforts to stand up to cyberbullying. People are looking to state governments and social media platforms to stop and punish the perpetrators.3 Additionally, resources such as https://www.stopbullying.gov/ provide information to help combat this growing issue.
Resources
- Merriam-Webster, Dictionary, Accessed 2024
- StopChildAbuse.org, What is Cyberbullying?, 2024
- Explodingtopics.com, 18 Cyberbullying Facts & Statistics, 2025
- Stopbullying.gov, What is Cyberbullying, Accessed 2025
Categories: Digital Safety / Safety Laws Safety/ Tweens/Teen Safety