RECOGNIZING T`HE SIGNS

 Recognizing the Signs

Content: Signs that a Student Might Be a Victim or Perpetrator of Cyberbullying can manifest in various ways, and it's crucial for parents, teachers, and peers to recognize the signs. Below are some key indicators for both victims and perpetrators.

Signs a Student Might Be a Victim:

• Withdrawal: Increased isolation from friends and family.
• Emotional Distress: Frequent mood swings, anxiety, or depression.
• Changes in Behavior: Sudden changes in academic performance or loss of interest in activities.
• Physical Signs: Unexplained injuries or complaints about headaches and stomachaches.
• Technology Hesitation: Reluctance to use devices or go online.

Signs a Student Might Be a Perpetrator:

• Aggressive Behavior: Frequent outbursts or bullying behavior in other contexts.
• Defensive Attitude: Overreacts to criticism or blames others for their actions.
• Preoccupation with Technology: Spending excessive time online, particularly in chat rooms or gaming.
• Lack of Empathy: Shows little concern for others' feelings or well-being.
• Group Influence: Often hangs out with peers who engage in bullying behaviors.

Signs You’re Being Cyberbullied

Cyberbullying can appear in many different ways:

Posting rumors or mean messages about you on social media.

Messaging you to call you names, make derogatory comments, or threaten to hurt you.

Making fake accounts in your name and pretending to be you on online forums or social media sites.

Asking you for personal details or keeping tabs on you digitally, such as if someone constantly asks who you are with, what you’re doing, or where you are.

Creating mean memes or shareable content about you without your permission.

Sending or leaving unwanted explicit messages, images, or comments.

Going behind your back in your social circle online.

Not sure if the behavior you’re experiencing online is cyberbullying? Think about how it makes you feel. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you may be experiencing  cyberbullying.

Do I feel upset about the messages I get on my phone or computer?

Have I noticeably increased or decreased my tech use because interacting with people online stresses me out?

Am I hiding my screen from friends or family members because I’m embarrassed about or ashamed of the messages I’m getting or the people I’m interacting with?

Do I avoid social situations in person because of something upsetting happening to me online?

Am I withdrawing from friends and family or losing interest in activities I love?

Do I feel excluded, like there’s a text or DM thread I’m intentionally not a part of?

Do I feel like my online world is made up of unnecessary drama and feel helpless about it? 

Here’s what cyberbullying may look like while it’s happening—and what to do if you think you’re on the receiving end of it. Here’s what cyberbullying may look like while it’s happening—and what to do if you think you’re on the receiving end of it.