Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying
Everyone has a responsibility to be aware of their actions online
Bullying is repeated, unwanted or aggressive behaviour meant to intimidate and make others uncomfortable, scared or hurt. It’s often based on the other person’s appearance, culture, race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation. Actions can include threats, rumours, or attacking someone physically or verbally.
In the UK, 24% of young people experience a form of cyberbullying. This can include receiving threatening or aggressive texts, emails or instant messages.
Cyberbullying can lead to psychological effects in victims, including depression, anxiety, low self esteem and physical illness. Bullying is a serious issue in the UK and by law, all state schools must have a behaviour policy in place that includes measures to prevent all forms of bullying among students.
Fast facts
- At least 16,000 young people miss school because of bullying each year.
Of young people bullied in the last year, half said it was because of their appearance.
The number of children and young people seeking help for online abuse has increased by 88% in five years.
38% of young people report that social media has a negative impact on their self-esteem, compared to 23% who report it has a positive impact.
Standing up to cyberbullying
With the wide-use of social media among young people today, it’s important for everyone to be aware of their actions as well as those of others. You have the power to be an advocate by speaking out and helping to prevent cyberbullying. You can be digitally responsible—spread positivity and put an end to hate by standing up to negative actions online.
Raising awareness is key to ending cyberbullying—people may not always be aware that they are cyberbullying because they are not aware of online etiquette. Plus, the ability to be anonymous online or hide behind a computer screen can make it easier for people to say or do things that they wouldn’t through face-to-face communication. Help to prevent cyberbullying by encouraging your peers to be respectful online with WE Rise Above.
