Identifying incidents of cyberbullying
Cyberbullying can happen to anyone, not just those generally considered vulnerable. Confident, outgoing individuals can also be targeted.
Research has identified that girls are more likely to report that they have been victims of cyberbullying than boys, potentially because they engage in a higher level of technology-assisted social communication such as using SMS, emailing and social networking.
One or more of the following signs and changes in behaviour could indicate that a student is being cyberbullied.
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Decline in academic performance and social interaction.
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Dislike and avoidance of school, sometimes resulting in higher absenteeism.
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Complaints of feeling unwell though parents report no specific illness.
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Having less to do with friends.
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Increased social exclusion and peer rejection.
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Falling behind in homework.
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Poorer physical health and sleepiness.
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Increased negative self-perception.
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Increased reluctance to participate in regular school activities, including classroom discussions.
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Becoming withdrawn, appearing depressed or anxious, having mood swings, crying for no apparent reason.
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Suicidal thoughts—this should be reported to the administration and the parents/carers immediately for appropriate action.
The above signs should be considered in light of the student’s usual behaviour.
Some of the signs above may also be indicators of more general social issues, specific mental health issues, or may even reflect developmentally appropriate behaviours for teens as they seek to establish their identity. Exploring any significant concerns with students and parents/carers is an important first step toward identifying issues and developing strategies to overcome them.