You may not realize it, but teens suffer from various external pressure that forces to have poor body image. Aside from pressure to conform, pressure from their friends adds up to their insurmountable problems as they grow.
Experts say that adolescents who experience cyberbullying are twice as likely to see themselves as being excessively fat. Although face-to-face bullying is hurtful, cyberbullying is its monster that’s causing widespread harm to everyone, especially teens.
The truth about cyberbullying
What makes cyberbullying quite problematic is that it spreads to other people exposed to toxic social media posts. Since most people have the option to be anonymous on social media, they feel free to spew hate on other people. Thus, making social media even more toxic as it is.
People who experience bullying may feel safe whenever they’re away from the perpetrators. But online trolls can be challenging to get rid of, especially when you’re on their list of targets. In just a fraction of a second, they can turn your life around by humiliating you and body shaming you at any time.
Once they’ve affected your self-esteem, its effects can be more damaging. Thus, resulting in developing mental health issues such as anorexia nervosa. And although treatment for any eating disorder in Westport, CT, is available, it’s still best to be with them during these trying times.
How cyberbullying spreads
Forms of cyberbullying vary from one person to another. It can be in the form of messages or emails. People can also do it by spreading rumors or secrets that could embarrass you or someone you know.
Meanwhile, others go to such extremes like posting an embarrassing video or photo of you to get to you. They often do it without permission to humiliate you. They can also pretend to another person and create many accounts to spread hurtful messages, too. But how do you know if your child is suffering from cyberbullying?
Signs that your child is a victim of cyberbullying
Although it may not seem clear at first, you’ll see a few telltale signs that your child is suffering from cyberbullying. One factor that you need to watch out for is their behavior. See if they’re often on edge whenever they receive a text or an email. You should also observe how they act online, too.
If they often feel depressed or express bursts of anger after going online, then there’s a chance that your child is experiencing cyberbullying.
If you notice that your child is displaying any of these behaviors, then it’s best to maintain open communication with them. You need to let them speak more and create an environment that’s free of any judgments or shame.
You need to be there for your child, especially when she’s going through such an ordeal. Report the incident to the school authorities so that they can be aware of what’s going on. The most important thing that you can do is be patient with them during these times. Show them that you understand what they are going through.