Cyberbullying is the use of technology to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person. With the rise of people using technology to talk to people, there is also a rise in strangers taking advantage of personal problems or details by sharing publicly or humiliating someone online.
This often involves Maybe embarrassing or sensitive stories being shared, these may have been spoken about in private.
Cyber Bullying can also come in more recognizable forms; such as name calling, weight shaming picking on physical features etc. The only difference here is that this is carried out behind a screen instead of face to face.
How do you know that someone is cyberbullying you?
Sometimes cyberbullying is blatant bullying in an online form, for example people being hateful or abusive. Sometimes it can be in other aspects either they can be messaging behind your back, using sarcasm in a way to insult you or subtly talking about you negatively on their public platform to other people. It really can be anything that can affect you in a negative way as long as it is carried out via an electronic device.
Many people also like to take their frustrations out on others, for example, in the gaming community people will spend time in online chats berating people for not being good or not being the same as them. Instead of fighting with the bully, many games or services let you mute or block players so that you don't have to hear their insults and enjoy the game, there is also the option to block or remove players from your platform or game; this means you are able to enjoy the game without worrying who is going to join in.
How do you know that you're the one cyberbullying?
Sometimes we do or say things online that we don't really think about but These actions or messages can have a huge effect on others.
Tone of voice and Body language is something you do not have the ability to read in a message. This often is the route of a lot of conflict.
Some people have created specific 'tone indicators' to make sure that the person understands them more clearly. We have listed some that are commonly used.
/j = joking, /gen = genuine and /srs = serious with other tone indicators linked below you can avoid making jokes without hurting any feelings.
Another thing is people tend to share their frustrations or negative stories online which can sometimes be a point of conflict with everyone's opinions coming up. People are absolutely allowed to vent about their life but it is important that you are cautious on what you post online, thinking about if you are happy for people to share their own opinions etc. If you are not, it is worth refraining from sharing it publicly.
Many people play video games and get angry, often showcasing their frustrations by typing or saying horrible things about the other Players. This could make the person feel like they can't or shouldn't play the game. Instead of being rude you could be encouraging, help them out and keep the positivity going as games are supposed to be fun.
What can you do if you think you are being Bullied?
A lot of people will, when confronted have the initial response of anger or fear, these are normal emotions to feel when you have been targeted by a bully. It is okay to feel a certain way when you are put in that situation but the important thing is how you choose to solve the problem.
If you think you are being Cyber bullied, you need to speak to someone you trust, whether that be a friend, family member or teacher. Sharing a worry is always better than keeping it all to yourself! Trying to confront a bully by yourself can put you in a position that could be dangerous, it can also make you feel worse.
Letting a trusted adult or game providers/social media platforms deal with the issue directly is always the most effective way to stop the bullying.
As well as telling a trusted adult you can call ChildLine if you need someone to talk to immediately, they can chat through any fears you may have. Their number is 0800 1111
Youth In Romsey is a safe space to talk through any worries you may have around online safety or bullying.
You can find our opening hours for drop ins or phone calls Here
references:
Am I cyberbullying others? | eSafety Commissioner a. [viewed Apr 17, 2024]. Available from: https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics/cyberbullying/am-i-cyberbullying-others
Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it | UNICEF b. [viewed May 1, 2024]. Available from: https://www.unicef.org/end-violence/how-to-stop-cyberbullying
a guide to tone indicators c. [viewed Apr 17, 2024]. Available from: https://toneindicators.carrd.co
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