Help recognise and put a stop to another pandemic...cyberbullying

Overview

Previously on Connection Matters Radio (CMR), the CEO and co-founder of Beat Bullying With Confidence Foundation, Ron Prasad, discussed the fear of a return that many school children may have as a return to school looms ever closer in Victoria.

During that interview, Ron spoke also about cyber bullying – that form of bullying that can reach everyone regardless of isolation status.

Ron returned to CMR to dive into more detail about cyber bullying.

“Cyber bullying is repeated unwanted behaviour toward a person, which happens online,” he told CMR.

It doesn’t only take place on social media. It can also take place on online forums, gaming platforms, text messages, and emails.”

In explaining some of the behavioural changes that could indicate a child is being subjected to cyber bullying, Ron said: “One is the child does their best to avoid going online, because they’ll be scared. They’ll be fearful of being attacked once they go online.

“Another sign is when the child comes offline, their behaviour changes. They are feeling very down, they feel upset.

“If the parent or guardian tries to talk to the child, they might not respond, they might get angry or they might give short answer responses. And that’s when the parent or guardian might start thinking, there is something going on.”

Key points discussed during this interview include:

Platforms that are used for cyber bullying

Signs that your child might be subjected to cyber bullying

Reporting cyber bullying via the esafety.gov.au website

Resources for everyone about all forms of bullying