Fig. 1 Cartoon by Dan Sheneman (Tribune Content Agency)
In an era when a tweet can spark outrage and an Instagram post can make or break a public figure, the rise of social media has drastically transformed the way we communicate, share information, and even bully one another. While platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have made it easier to connect across the globe, they’ve also created a breeding ground for harassment, hatred, and real-world violence.
This is not some distant, theoretical concern. Increasingly, the lines between online interactions and offline behavior are blurring. The emotional effects of digital bullying are spilling over into physical spaces, turning once safe environments like schools, workplaces, and even homes into battlegrounds. While these posts may seem childish to adults, teenagers are feeling the repercussions of this new form of public shaming, humiliation, and abuse. The usage of social media has caused an increase in real-world bullying.
The Growth of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying, the malicious use of digital platforms to target and harm individuals, has been well-documented over the last decade. According to the Pew Research Center, a staggering 46% of U.S. teens report being bullied or harassed online, with many citing hurtful comments and rumors as the most common forms of digital torment.
Fig. 2 Survey of types of bullying selected teens experienced
But the problem doesn't end there. As social media has evolved, so too has the severity of online harassment. A simple insult on a public thread can escalate into threats of violence, with consequences that ripple far beyond the screen.
The typical experience of a victim is disturbingly familiar: a comment thread or a viral post, designed to humiliate, spread false information, or target someone's appearance, identity, or personal life. For children and teens, these attacks often carry grave emotional consequences. Though the pain may start online, it crosses into real life having very real consequences affecting relationships, self-esteem, and sometimes, the very real threat of suicide!
The National Library of Medicine states in their article Cyberbullying and Adolescent Suicide “14.9 percent of adolescents have been cyberbullied with 13.6 percent of adolescents having made a serious suicide attempt.” The very idea that some stranger online that you don’t know could have a serious effect on your child AND nothing is being done? A complete stranger could take your loved ones away from you! We cannot rely on the powers that be to take action. We, as parents, must PROTECT our children!
Fig. 3 Child Hiding from Computer Screen by Aleksandr Zamuruev
As a parent I have seen firsthand the devastating effects that cyberbullying can have on young people. In my experience, the emotional and psychological toll of online harassment is far more than just a passing phase; it can lead to long-lasting scars. This is something I deal with greatly battling conservatives in everyday America. Over the years, I have worked with countless peers, some of whom have struggled to cope with the aftermath of digital abuse. If grown adults sometimes struggle with this grievance, how do our children stand a chance? The anxiety, isolation, and feelings of worthlessness that often follow these online attacks are not abstract concepts; they are real and deeply affecting. As professionals, parents, and concerned citizens, we must all take responsibility for combating this growing crisis.
But, you may think, bullying has existed since the dawn of time! We've all had to deal with bullies. It's just part of growing up! What more of an effect does social media have on this? The real fact is, bullying in schools alone could only stay in that school or up the street. With the internet, our children have nowhere to hide! The anonymity of cyberbullying has made bullies more bold in real-life confrontations, reports Dr. Wick in How Using Social Media Affects Teenagers. We all know that bullies are just COWARDS and the internet provides a perfect place to hide while attacking others. Once on the internet, always on the internet. Comments and pictures used by bullies will not only follow our children through environments but also across years of their life.
We cannot let these strangers on TikTok, Instagram, and whatever social media platform affect our children in detrimental ways. The internet is full of both positive and negative influences, and unfortunately, the harmful content can often outweigh the helpful. It is our responsibility as parents to stand between our children and potential dangers, not just to protect their physical safety, but also their mental and emotional well-being.
The digital world can be overwhelming, with its constant influx of images, messages, and sometimes toxic trends that may leave lasting effects on young minds. By being vigilant and proactive, we can help shield our children from these risks. The best way to defend them from this threat is to set a good example of internet safety, encourage open communication about online experiences, and establish clear boundaries. This includes monitoring device usage, not just by limiting screen time, but by actively engaging in their interests. Also, delaying the age at which we give our children phones can offer them valuable time to develop a strong sense of self without harmful influence. By ensuring that our children understand the importance of privacy, respectful communication, and online responsibility, we can empower them to make safer, more informed choices as they grow older. Ultimately, it’s about striking a balance between digital engagement and real-world development, equipping our children with the tools they need to succeed in both worlds while protecting their innocence for as long as possible.
Topics: Social Media
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