How to Identify if Your Child is a Victim of Cyber Bullying

Identifying whether your child is a victim of cyberbullying requires vigilant observation of their behaviour, emotions, and online interactions. Here are signs that may indicate your child is experiencing cyberbullying:

  1. Emotional Changes:

    • Sudden Mood Swings: Noticeable changes in mood, such as increased irritability, sadness, or anger.

    • Emotional Distress: Expressing feelings of sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal.

  2. Avoidance of Devices:

    • A sudden aversion to using computers, smartphones, or other devices, especially social media platforms.

  3. Change in Social Patterns:

    • Isolation: Avoidance of social situations or friends.

    • Loss of Interest: A decline in interest in social activities or hobbies.

  4. Drop in Academic Performance:

    • A sudden decline in academic performance or engagement.

  5. Sleep Disturbances:

    • Changes in sleep patterns, such as difficulty sleeping or excessive sleep.

  6. Physical Health Issues:

    • Unexplained headaches, stomach-aches, or other physical complaints related to stress.

  7. Secretive Behaviour:

    • Becoming secretive about online activities or avoiding discussions about what they do online.

  8. Changes in Online Behaviour:

    • Abrupt Cease in Online Activity: Stopping or significantly reducing online activity.

    • Creating New Profiles: Creating new online profiles or accounts without a clear reason.

  9. Social Media Anxieties:

    • Expressing anxiety about receiving messages, notifications, or friend requests on social media.

  10. Unusual Behaviour After Online Interactions:

    • Expressing distress or sadness after using social media or other online platforms.

  11. Avoidance of School:

    • Reluctance or refusal to attend school or participate in school-related activities.

  12. Changes in Friendships:

    • A shift in friendships or withdrawal from social circles.

  13. Decreased Self-Esteem:

    • A sudden decline in self-esteem or negative self-talk.

  14. Unexplained Items or Gifts:

    • Receiving unexplained gifts or items that may be related to the bullying.

  15. Reluctance to Discuss Online Activity:

    • Avoiding discussions about online activities, friends, or interactions.

  16. Changes in Behaviour After Device Use:

    • Noticeable changes in behaviour or mood after using devices, such as becoming upset or withdrawn.

  17. Self-Harm Indicators:

    • Signs of self-harm, which may include unexplained cuts, bruises, or marks.

  18. Unexplained Withdrawal from Online Communities:

    • Sudden withdrawal from online groups, forums, or gaming communities.

  19. Fear or Apprehension:

    • Expressing fear or apprehension about going online or using specific platforms.

  20. Hesitancy to Attend School Events:

  • Avoidance of school events or social gatherings.


If you observe several of these signs, it's important to take the following steps:

  1. Open Communication:

    • Talk to your child openly about their online experiences and express your concern.

  2. Reassure and Support:

    • Reassure your child that they are not alone, and you are there to support them.

  3. Document Evidence:

    • Encourage your child to document instances of cyberbullying, including screenshots, messages, or other evidence.

  4. Report to School Authorities:

    • If the bullying involves schoolmates, report the incidents to the school authorities.

  5. Report to Online Platforms:

    • Report cyberbullying incidents to the relevant online platforms or social media sites.

  6. Block and Restrict:

    • Advise your child to block or restrict communication with the cyberbully.

  7. Involve Law Enforcement if Necessary:

    • If the bullying involves serious threats or illegal activities, involve law enforcement.

  8. Seek Professional Support:

    • Consider seeking support from a counsellor, therapist, or mental health professional to help your child cope with the emotional impact of cyberbullying.

  9. Educate About Online Safety:

    • Teach your child about online safety, including the importance of privacy settings, not sharing personal information, and reporting inappropriate behaviour.

  10. Monitor Online Activity:

    • Regularly monitor your child's online activity, ensuring they feel comfortable discussing any concerns with you.

Remember, it's crucial to address cyberbullying promptly to minimize its impact on your child's mental and emotional well-being. Encourage your child to speak up and take action to ensure their safety and support their recovery.