Cyberbullying: the signs and what to do
Bullying no longer ends at the school gate: it continues on the phone, in the evening and on weekends. Mockery in a group chat, a photo shared without consent, a fake account in their name, organized exclusion: your child has nowhere left to hide.
Signs to watch for
- They hide their screen, jump at every notification, or on the contrary no longer want to touch their phone.
- They do not want to go to school, and often complain of stomachaches or headaches.
- They sleep badly, withdraw, or give up an activity they used to enjoy.
- Their grades drop for no apparent reason.
None of these signs proves bullying, but several together are a good reason to talk about it, calmly, without interrogating.
The right reflexes
- Listen and believe them, without downplaying or dramatizing. Tell them they did the right thing by talking.
- Do not confiscate the phone. They might not tell you anything next time.
- Keep the evidence: screenshots showing the date, the account name, the link.
- Do not reply to the bully, and block them.
- Alert the school, which has a duty to act.
Getting help
Many countries have a helpline for children and parents facing online harassment, and social networks let you report content. Find out today what exists in your country, and note it down.
The law
In many countries, bullying, including online, is punishable by law. You can file a complaint with the police. Illegal content can be reported to the authorities of your country.
In case of immediate danger, call your country’s emergency number (112 in Europe). Learn it now, before you need it.
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