Identifying the Traits of Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can come in many different forms. Help Guide, a nonprofit organization that specializes in mental health, outlines the different ways cyberbullying can be identified. Almost anyone with an internet capable device can cyberbully people. They can remain totally anonymous while cyberbullying others, making it easier not to be caught unlike in person bullying. Also, unlike live bullying, cyberbullying can happen to someone at any time and any place. Cell phones and computers can be connected to the internet 24/7. Because of this constant connection, cyberbullying can occur at any time of the day, and can be sent from across the globe.

Cyberbullying also has a larger audience. It can be seen and shared by hundreds, thousands, or even millions of other internet users. Cyberbullying can occur in many different forms as well. One common method of cyberbullying is sending hateful or threatening messages. More cyberbullying methods exist, including hacking an email address or even creating an entire social media hate page about someone. Furthermore, Cyberbullying can also happen across all genders. Boys typically cyberbully by “sexting” about suggestive actions and threatening with physical harm. Girls tend to spread hate and rumors.

How to Know if Someone is being Cyberbullied

According to the Help Guide website, there are several signs that someone may be being cyberbullied. One sign is that the victim is regularly skipping or maybe even dropping out of school. This is a common sign because they try to get away from the source of the bullying. Due to them missing out on school, their grades could see a decline. Another sign of someone being cyberbullied is their overall mental and physical health. People who get cyberbullied can develop mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and in some cases, PTSD.

Full Spectrum Education outlines more signs of someone who is a victim of cyberbullying. One sign of someone being cyberbullied is that they get upset after using the internet or their phone. Another sign of someone being cyberbullied is a change in their friend groups. People may lose friends due to cyberbullying because they become less involved, and their “friends” might be the ones doing the bullying.