“Cyberbullying” – a term that has emerged with the advent of technology is something parents today cannot relate to. However, it can be as damaging as any other kind of bullying and happens to be one of the most common online dangers. It is therefore highly critical for parents to identify whether their kids are being cyberbullied.

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Here are 7 signs that can warn you that your child is being bullied online

Secretive about their online activities
If your child is being secretive about their online activities lately or is being protective of their device then parents must be concerned. Find out if your child is getting upset or nervous when they receive an email or text message. Your child might also be extremely reluctant about parting with their device. However, remember children would never be comfortable sharing information about their online activities with parents . Just compare if their behavior has undergone major changes suddenly. This might be one of the signs of cyberbullying.

Having trouble sleeping at night
Your child might not sleep due to the level of anxiety to check social media. But taking away their devices forcefully is not the solution here, as it might leave them distressed.

Withdrawal from family life
Your child might withdraw themselves from their close friends and family. If you find your child is not participating in family gatherings, keeping things to themselves, encourage them to participate in family discussions.

Extreme mood swings
Needless to say, cyberbullying lowers self-esteem and self-confidence. As a result, your kid might be moody and irritable.

Disinterest in school activities
If you find your child has suddenly lost all interest in school activities, it might be another sign of cyberbullying. If your child has suddenly stopped doing school work and has been receiving low grades, you must sit down with them, and find out what is the problem. You must be a friend to your child in such situations if you want them to be completely honest with you.

They are always complaining of illnesses
Your child might often come up with excuses like a stomach ache or a headache due to anxiety and stress to avoid going to gatherings and school.

Eating disorders
Your child might lose his/ her appetite due to cyberbullying. Either they skip meals or indulge themselves in binge eating. If this goes on for a long period of time, your child might gain or lose weight.

Talk to your child, and support them through cyberbullying. During severe cases, make sure you take help from their school or other organizations, which can help your child fight against cyberbullying.

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