Technology has grown to be an essential level of communication, like being able to contact peers through texting, calling, and emails. You can also communicate through social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, etc. This might seem like a great way for teenagers to interact with each other and for some part it is, but it also comes with the negatives. Cyberbully. What is cyberbullying? The use of an electronic like a cell phone, computer, or tablet that an individual uses to send out or post content about someone else that involves hurtful language, threats, and harassment. In simpler terms, this is bullying online. Young teens not only have to worry about the potential of being bullied in school, but cyberbullying gives the opportunity to be bullied outside of school. Since new generations of social media have come out, there has been an increase in teens needing mental health help. Cyberbullying causes not only mental distress, but physical and emotional. Without programs for help, teens have dealt with mental health issues, as well as low academic performance, low self-esteem, and even suicidal thoughts or tendencies.
Cyberbullying Statistics
Out of the ages between 12-17, 37% have been cyberbullied with 30% having it happen more than once.
In the US, 95% of teens are online. This creates a large space for cyberbullying to occur.
27% of students have confessed that they have said something mean to someone online.
Teen girls are 9% more likely to get bullied online than boys.
LGBTQ+ students have a higher-than-average rate of cyberbullying.
A survey showed that the social media platform, Instagram, was responsible for 42% of online bullying.
83% of young people believe there needs to be more done with bullying on social media platforms.
About 60% of teens see cyberbullying, but do not intervene.
1 in every 10 victims will tell a trusted adult about being cyberbullied.
Girl Next Door Program
If you are having issues with being bullied or difficulty with self-esteem, Stars that Shine has an anti-bullying program that has help for girls with cyberbullying. This is called the Girl Next Door program. Our program consists of a safe space that girls can talk about and cope with self-esteem, bullying, peer pressure, and much more. We also have workshops and activities that can help girls with stress related issues, educational goals, conflict resolution, diversity, and leadership. This program is open to students in Berkeley County West Virginia schools, as well as students in Jefferson County West Virginia schools. Just fill out a form for us to contact you and you will be in helping hands!
Link to Girl Next Door Program!
References:
“11 Facts about Cyberbullying.” DoSomething.org, https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-cyber-bullying#fnref6.
Ranch, Idaho Youth. “Effects of Cyberbullying on Social Media [& How to Prevent It].” Idaho Youth Ranch Offers Counseling for Youth and Families in Idaho, https://www.youthranch.org/blog/social-media-dangers-and-the-effects-of-cyberbullying.
Groff, Lauren. “8 Reasons Kids Turn to Cyberbullying.” BuzzingBubs, 11 Aug. 2021, https://buzzingbubs.com/articles/8-reasons-kids-turn-to-cyberbullying.
“Cyberbullying, Celebrities, & the Cycle of Abuse: Albion.” Albion Fellows Bacon Center, 29 Aug. 2019, https://albionfellowsbacon.org/cyberbullying/.