Cyberbullying is a web of destruction: Kids and teens suffer physical and mental health issues

Cyberbullying is an extremely serious issue and it’s linked to serious health problems …including suicide which we’ve seen all too much.

Cyberbullying is aggressive and intentional online harassment by a group or an individual using electronic forms of contact repeatedly and over time against a victim who cannot defend themselves.

And it has reached epidemic proportion with the increased use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices by kids, teens and yes – even adults.

Unlike physical, verbal and emotional bullying, cyberbullying reaches massive audiences via social media and other technology, making it difficult for the victim to escape their bullies. And it can be completely anonymous.

According to a new study in the July issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry, new research shows the prevalence and consequences of cyberbullying proving that both cyberbullies and their victims are prone to a whole host of physical and mental problems.

In the study, cyberbullying victims reported emotional, concentration, and behavioral issues, as well as problems getting along with their peers. The victims were also more likely to report frequent headaches, recurrent stomach pain, and difficulty sleeping. One in four said they felt unsafe at school.

Cyberbullies also reported the same symptoms and issues. They are also more likely to be hyperactive, have conduct problems, abuse alcohol, and smoke cigarettes.

The study found that both cyberbullies and their victims reported all of these physical and mental health issues.

Like physical and emotional bullying, cyberbullying causes low self-esteem, thoughts of suicide, anger, frustration, school problems, antisocial behavior, substance abuse, eating disorders and delinquency.

Increased involvement and awareness by parents, educators, youth, health and mental health providers, policymakers, community leaders and law enforcement could decrease the amount of both injuries and deaths.

STOMP Out Bullying, a signature program of Love Our Children USA focuses on reducing and preventing bullying, cyberbullying and other digital abuse, decreasing school absenteeism and truancy, educating against homophobia, racism and hatred and deterring violence in schools, playgrounds, online and in communities across the country.

As the National nonprofit leader and ‘Go-To’ prevention organization fighting all forms of violence and neglect against children in the U.S., it is Love Our Children USA’s commitment, passion and purpose to keep youth of all ages safe.

It is through education, awareness, school and community programs that we can stop our youth from making the web the Wild West (Do read Michael Fertik's Wild West 2.0).

Schools can no longer sweep the issue under the rug. It is critically important to have national no-tolerance policy and it MUST be enforced.

You can also visit Love Our Children USA for more information on parenting issues

SUBSCRIBE above to receive email alerts about cyberbullying and bullying

Click here for more articles

Twitter  http://twitter.com/ProtectChildren            
http://twitter.com/stompoutbullyng

Click here to visit our STOMP Out Bullying Facebook Page

Ross Ellis is also the Examiner for:

NY Parenting Issues
National Cyber Safety
NY Domestic Violence and Abuse