Emotional effects of the cyberbullying
behavioral effects
Signs of cyberbullying
What are Emotional effects of the cyberbullying?
They may feel distressed, they may also feel ashamed, hurt, and even fear for their safety. They may even blame themselves for cyberbullying.
Mental effects
Emotional effects
Humiliation
Because cyberbullying occurs in cyberspace, online bullying feels permanent.
Isolation
Cyberbullying sometimes causes kids to be excluded and ostracized at school. Consequently, they often feel alone and isolated.
Anger
Many victims of cyberbullying will get angry about what is happening to them. In fact, research indicates that anger is the most common response to cyberbullying
Powerlessness
Victims of cyberbullying often find it difficult to feel safe. They may feel vulnerable and powerless
Emotional effects
Depression and Anxiety
Victims of cyberbullying may succumb to anxiety, depression, and other stress-related conditions. The added stress of coping with cyberbullying on a regular basis can steal their feelings of happiness and contentment..
Academic Issues
Kids being victimized by cyberbullying may lose interest in school. As a result, they often have much higher rates of absenteeism than non-bullied kids.
Low Self-Esteem
Cyberbullying often zeros in on what already makes victims feel most vulnerable. For example, maybe a child who feels insecure about a birthmark ends up being bullied about just that.
Suicidal Thoughts and Self-Harm
Sometimes targets of cyberbullying respond to their intense feelings by harming themselves in some way. For instance, some might engage in self-harm such as cutting or burning themselves.
Skipping school: Sometimes when kids are cyberbullied, the thought of going to school is just more than they can handle. Consequently, it's not uncommon for them to skip school or even behave in such a way that results in suspension.
Using drugs or alcohol: Kids who are harassed online are more likely to engage in substance abuse. In fact, one study found that targets of cyberbullying were 2.5 times more likely to use marijuana or engage in binge drinking than their peers.
Carrying a weapon: Even more concerning is the fact that kids who are cyberbullied are more likely to bring a weapon to school. In fact, one survey found that targets of cyberbullying were eight times more likely to have brought a weapon to school in the last 30 days than their peers.
Disordered eating: Kids who are cyberbullied may experience changes in eating habits like skipping meals or binge eating.
Sleep disturbances: Experiencing cyberbullying can impact a person's sleep patterns.
Gastrointestinal issues: The stress of bullying also can cause or worsen conditions like upset stomach, abdominal pain, and stomach ulcers. Kids may also struggle with frequent nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.