With wider access to computers and other devices that can go online, the potential for cyberbullying has grown. No longer are bullies confined to picking on others on the school playground. Today, many bullies are refraining from physical bullying, opting instead to bullying by email, social media, instant messaging and other online modes of communication. Although cyberbullying doesn’t have the same, obvious signs that physical bullying has, it can be just as damaging in the long term. Here, we are covering cyberbullying statistics, as well as some information that may be useful to you if your child, friend or colleague is a victim of cyberbullying.

What Is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is simply any form of bullying taking place online or by digital communication. This can include text messages, instant messengers, social media, email and other apps such as Snapchat.

Some forms of bullying are unique to the online world because it allows for different ways of interacting. These can include:

  • Flaming: This is an aggressive exchange between two or more people online.
  • Impersonation: Technology allows people to post or comment as others if they have gained access to another’s account. This can be used to bully.
  • Cyber Stalking: Social media and messaging give stalkers new opportunities to contact follow and harass their victims.
  • Outing: Direct access to large groups of people can make outings, sharing secrets and other personal information all the more hurtful.
  • Trolling: This involves trying to wind up others online with immature questions or mean comments.

Cyberbullying can be just as hurtful as bullying in real life and can be more damaging to someone’s reputation. Since it is less immediately obvious, it is even more critical to be informed about cyberbullying. Since the technology changes year-on-year we have gathered some information about the state of cyberbullying in 2014. Please read on to find out more.

Cyberbullying Statistics

  • 25 per cent of teenagers report that they have experienced repeated bullying on their cell phones, or on the Internet.
  • 52 per cent of young people report being cyberbullied.
  • 11 per cent of adolescents and teens report that embarrassing or damaging photographs have been taken of them without their knowledge or consent.
  • Of the young people who reported cyberbullying incidents against them, a third reported that their bullies used online threats.
  • 10 per cent of all middle school and high school students have been on the receiving end of hate terms.
  • 55 per cent of all teens that use social media have witnessed outright bullying online.
  • 95 per cent of teens that witnessed bullying on social media report that others, like them, have ignored the behaviour.
  • More than half of young people surveyed say that they never confide in their parents when cyberbullying happens to them.
  • Only one out of every six parents of adolescents and teens are even aware of the scope and intensity of cyberbullying today.
  • More than 80 per cent of teens regularly use cell phones; a common medium for cyberbullying.
  • About half of young people have experienced some form of cyberbullying. Of them, almost 20 per cent experience cyberbullying regularly.
  • The most common types of cyberbullying tactics reported are mean, hurtful comments, as well as the spreading of rumours.
  • Cyberbullying affects all races.
  • Victims of cyberbullying are more likely to suffer from low self-esteem and to consider suicide.

Report From Counselling Service concerning Cyber Bullying Statistics

Childline, a free counselling service based in the United Kingdom, identified in their most recent annual report that cyberbullying concerns rose by a whopping 87 per cent in 2013 over the previous year. Depression and general unhappiness were cited as the main reasons for contacting the charity. Young people contacted the charity more online, by email or in one-on-one chat sessions than by telephone.

Cyberbullying Statistics: What Can Be Done To Prevent Cyberbullying?

The sad part about cyberbullying is that the people who love these teens and adolescents – including their friends, parents and teachers – often don’t know what to do to help. Providing support to bullying victims is always encouraged and appropriate. Below, you’ll find other ways to hopefully help deal with these vicious attacks.

Cyberbullying Statistics: What Can Be Done To Prevent Cyber Bullying?

The sad part about cyberbullying is that the people who love these teens and adolescents – including their friends, parents and teachers – often don’t know what to do to help. Providing support to bullying victims is always encouraged and appropriate. Below, you’ll find other ways to hopefully help deal with these vicious attacks.

  • Talk to teens about cyberbullying, and explain that it is wrong and can have serious consequences. You may want to have some specific rules with your teens regarding cyberbullying, such as banning sending mean texts or inappropriate behaviour online.
  • Encourage teens to report incidents of cyberbullying to an adult, but be careful to reassure victims that they will not be punished.
  • Reassure the bullying victim that they are not at fault for the attacks against them.
  • Encourage adolescents and teens to save cyberbullying messages as proof. This is especially important if the incidents are eventually reported to the police, parents or school officials.
  • Since much of the cyberbullying attacks happen via cell phones, victims should start by changing their cell phone numbers and email addresses. You can also contact your cell phone provider to block the bully.
  • Encourage young people not to send information or photos by text or instant messaging that they wouldn’t want to be shared publicly.

Please help us spread the word on Cyberbullying Statistics with your friends or by social media. The best approach we have to raising awareness and combating cyberbullying is by fact-based, informed and sympathetic action. If you have any questions or would like to make a comment please join the conversation below, we’d love to hear from you.