Cyberbullying is a modern-day way of bullying individuals using the internet via social media apps and online games. Methods of cyberbullying may include sending offensive messages, posting unwanted embarrassing pictures, threats through anonymous accounts, and spreading lies about a person on the internet. While cyberbullying and in-person bullying don’t necessarily always occur together, chances of cyberbullying are high when an individual is already bullied in person. Unlike bullying in person, cyberbullying leaves a digital footprint, making it easier to keep evidence of bullies.
In some cases, offensive messages online may be referred to “as a joke”. Even with friends, it is important to set boundaries and stand up for yourself when you feel victimized by others. Cyberbullying may negatively affect ones mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. A victim of cyberbullying may start to have a negative perception of themselves, and possibly start to feel depression and anxiety symptoms. In addition, cyberbullying takes a toll on ones corporal self in methods such as loss of sleep, appetite, pleasure in hobbies, and feeling aches throughout the body. It’s important to note that if unwanted “jokes” don’t stop after you’ve set a boundary, this is considered bullying and there are steps to be taken to prevent future cases and to hold the individual(s) accountable.
Depending on the severity of the situation, different levels of action may be taken. If your life is at immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police and be prepared to provide evidence. If threats are sent from a person you don’t know in real life, report the individual or message through the application itself. In numerous social media apps, you can either restrict, block, or report an individual who harass you through that platform. However, if an individual you know in person is harassing you, speaking to a trusted adult who can vouch for you may be the solution to end the bullying. Don’t be shy to vouch for your wellbeing and speak up for yourself, especially when your safety is at risk.
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