Cyberbullied Kids Show These 7 Tell-Tale Signs

Bullying has always been around, and the internet has changed the way children are being bullied. Kids can be cruel to each other, and they find it much easier to do so when hiding behind a screen. Kids and teens often feel embarrassed or sensitive about bullying situations, which makes them hesitant to inform an adult about the severity of the situation. The best thing parents can do is keep a watchful eye on their children.

They Have Troublesome Relationships with Their Phones

Since screens put a distance between the bully and the victim, confrontations aren’t direct. This often leads to children taking out their anger on their phones. If your child frequently throws or breaks his or her phone, the reason behind this frustration is probably coming from the other side of the screen.

They Fake Sickness

Sickness is the most common excuse to skip out on social events or school. If your child seems to be coming down with frequent headaches or stomachaches with no apparent cause, they could be pretending to be ill. Sometimes, these headaches and stomachaches will actually be real. They’re a result of sadness or stress your child may be experiencing as a result of cyberbullying.

Their Relationship with Food Changes

Appetite shifts often occur with depression – in both children and adults. If your child has been bullied about his or her weight, this may lead them to reject food or eat less than usual. On the other hand, some people turn to food for comfort. An increase in snacking or portion sizes can also indicate something unseen is bothering your children.

They Become Loners

The most surefire way to tell that your child is having social difficulties is a significant disruption in their social lives. When your child doesn’t want to see their friends as often, this could be because they are no longer friends. Decreased confidence as a result of bullying often leads children to isolate themselves – not just from the children who are bullying them, but from the children they get along with.

They Become Argumentative

Though it’s a bad habit, many people without strong coping skills have a tendency to take their anger out on others. Some level of rebellion is absolutely normal in kids and teens. It’s an unfortunate part of growing up, but it’s something most parents have to deal with. When that argumentative behavior begins to dominate every discussion, this isn’t normal. Your child might be hurting under the surface, and you need to uncover the root cause. Who is upsetting them so drastically?

They Underperform in School

Good students are optimistic and well rested. Cyberbullied kids seldom fall into either category. Since many children being bullied online don’t want to face their classmates, they’ll often skip school entirely. The ones who do go are generally too rattled and emotional to be able to fully commit themselves to their work.

If your child has always been a great student and is showing sudden signs of a decline in performance, this could be the result of their relationship with their peers. Even if they’re being bullied almost exclusively online, it’s still hard for them to attend classes with the person who is bullying them.

They Won’t Tell You Anything

Childhood and teenage angst is often peppered with a need for privacy. That’s a part of becoming independent, and it isn’t a problem all by itself. It’s okay for them to want to lock their door once in a while, or to be able to go out without an adult when they’re coming into their teen years.

What isn’t normal is secrecy that’s accompanied by a bad mood. This usually means they’re protecting something that is emotionally painful or embarrassing to talk about. Make sure your child knows that he or she can talk to you about everything – even the ugly stuff. If your home is a judgement free zone, you’ll be able to open up a dialogue about cyberbullying.

If your child shows any of the above behaviors, this is not yet a sign of trouble. However, if the changes in behavior occur more often and become more dramatic, it is the time to take action. Try sitting down with your child and calmly asking if anything is bothering them. If they still refuse to tell you anything, try asking their friends and peers. Worst case scenario – check their phone and computer for any signs of bullying.

If you have any suspicions that your children may have fallen victim of cyberbullying, talk with the local police. Remember that cyberbullying is a form of harassment and therefore, a crime. It is your job to protect your child from online bullies and predators and ensure they grow up in a healthy and safe environment.

Written by: Lucy Taylor is a legal blogger whose main interest lie in criminal and education law. Currently supporting LY Lawyers, Lucy might be found sharing her suggestions and tips online with all those who require legal assistance.