Bullying and cyberbullying among children and adolescents
Bullying is defined as gestures, words and behaviours designed to offend, belittle, humiliate or reject a person, causing them to lose their self-esteem and dignity. There is usually an unequal balance of power between the individuals involved.
One thing is certain: bullying and cyberbullying cause serious consequences for the children and teenagers who fall victim to it.
Bullying behaviour
Bullying is a form of violence that requires immediate attention, especially among youth. It is often identified through harmful actions, words, and behaviours, including but not limited to the following:
- Whether intentional or not
- Repeated bullying
- Through direct or indirect actions
- Aimed at causing harm or damage
- In situations where there is an imbalance of power or control
A child or teenager being bullied is under the control of a person or group of people; they have difficulties defending themselves
Forms of bullying
Unfortunately, there is no single form of bullying. It can be grouped into four main categories:
- Verbal abuse (insulting, threatening, ridiculing, etc.)
- Physical abuse (hitting, shoving, tripping, etc.)
- Social abuse (demeaning, humiliating, spreading rumours, etc.)
- Material abuse (destroying, vandalizing, stealing, etc.)
Bullying can also occur online, via social media, email, text messaging, blogs or interactive video game platforms. This form of bullying is called cyberbullying.
The characteristics of cyberbullying
As mentioned above, cyberbullying takes place using computers, smartphones or other devices with an Internet connection. This form of bullying humiliates, threatens or mocks a person virtually (online).
Because of the anonymous and potentially viral status of actions taken online, the consequences of cyberbullying are likely to be even greater for the young people who fall victim to it. Cyberbullying can damage a person’s self-esteem, interpersonal relationships and even the future lives of those affected.
Characteristics of bullying victims
Certain personality traits are common to many bullying victims, such as:
- Low self-esteem
- Be introverted by nature
- Difficult relationships with others
- Social anxiety
- Mental health issues
- Etc.
The consequences of bullying and cyberbullying
The consequences of bullying and cyberbullying can be devastating for victims. They affect motivation at school, self-confidence and self-esteem. Bullying and cyberbullying can lead to loneliness and more serious situations, including:
- Drug and alcohol use
- Behavioural problems
- Symptoms of depression
- Psychological distress
- Suicidal ideation and suicide
What to do in the event of bullying
Wherever young people are being bullied, there are measures in place to help them.
At school
By law, every school must have an anti-bullying and anti-violence plan. If a student is being bullied, the student, a teacher, a staff member or even a parent has the right to notify the school administration.
At work
In the workplace, bullying often takes the form of psychological harassment. This form of bullying can occur between employees, between an employee and their employer, or even with someone connected to the company (customer, supplier, etc.). The victim, a relative, or a witness to the situation can expose the situation to the people in charge of the company or directly to the employer.
On the Internet
Certain actions taken online are prohibited by law and considered offences. When a child or teenager is a victim of cyberbullying, they can talk to a trusted adult, discuss the situation with a school counsellor, or even report it to the police.
Every day
Certain grounds for discrimination, such as race, ethnic origin, age, religion, and language, are also prohibited by law. Victims of discrimination have the right to turn to the Commission des droits de la personne et de la jeunesse (Human and Youth Rights Commission) or to the courts in the event of serious damage resulting from the situation.
Never hesitate to seek help and talk about bullying, whether you're a victim, a parent or a direct witness.
Open-mindedness and acceptance of differences are a must!
Text written in collaboration with Vie de Parents.