Signs that a child is being cyberbullied
Children who are being bullied often feel ashamed and embarrassed. They may not tell parents for this reason or for fear that their mobile phones or computers will be taken away. When children are being bullied they often show changes in mood.
They may show anxiety when receiving texts or become troubled or upset after using the computer. Ongoing abuse can result in depression, with changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Children may resist attending school or group gatherings. Secretiveness when using devices like mobile phones or tablets is also common.
How can parents help
As a private investigator, I have seen what can happen when parents are completely unaware of their children’s online activities. Parents need to become as familiar as possible with the types of technology and gadgets their children are using. This involves knowing about privacy and security settings and making sure they are used.
Many children go online from a very early age, especially if they have mobile phones. A parent has to exercise some control in this situation because a young child will not be aware of the consequences of some of their actions.
