Bullying, Ciberbullying and Online Harassment
Bullying, Ciberbullying and Online Harassment: How to Detect and Overcome The, with Psychological Support in Marbella
Bullying among adolescents and children Is a serious issue that affects emotional, academic, and social well-being. With the rise of technology, cyberbullying or online harassment at school has become a common form of abuse that can occur through social media, WhatsApp, online video games, or digital platforms.
”One of the key findings from this research is that, on average, almost two students per class report being victims of bullying, based on an average class size of 28 students. This means that 6.2% of students from 4th grade in primary school to 4th grade in secondary school have experienced bullying in the past two months. In contrast, the study also indicates that 2.1% of respondents identified themselves as bullies, which reflects roughly one bully for every two classes. (Complutense University of Madrid, 2023). Resource
According to these figures, there are almost 220,000 students in Spain who are victims of school bullying, and more than 74,000 perpetrators.
What is Bullying and How to Identify it?
Bullying is a repeated pattern of aggression intended to intimidate, humiliate, or control another person. It can manifest in several ways:
- Physical bullying: hitting, pushing, or damaging belongings.
- Verbal bullying: insults, offensive nicknames, or threats.
- Social bullying: exclusion from groups, spreading rumors, or isolation.
Sings of bullying in adolescents may include behavioral changes, social withdrawal, sleep problems, or declining school performance.
Ciberbullying and Online Harassment: The Digital Danger
Cyberbullying is a form of harassment carried out through the internet and electronic devices. Common examples include:
- Offensive or threatening messages on social media.
- Posting photos or videos without consent.
- Creating fake profiles to humiliate or intimidate someone.
Online harassment at school can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social isolation. Recognizing it early is essential to prevent serious consequences.
Warning Signs of Bullying and Cyberbullying
Paying attention to these signs can help detect problems early:
- Sudden mood changes or persistent sadness.
- Avoiding school, social activities, or online platforms.
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits.
- Loss of confidence or fear of communicating.
How to Offer Support and Protection
If you suspect someone is being bullied or harassed online, these actions can help:
- Listen without judgement and validate their emotions.
- Save evidence of offensive messages or posts.
- Contact mental health professionals for guidance and support.
Psychological Treatment for Victims of Bullying and Cyberbullying
At our psychology clinic, we offer specialized treatment for bullying and cyberbullying, with a comprehensive approach:
- Individual therapy: strengthening self-esteem, resilience, and social skills.
- Family therapy: improving communication and emotional support.
- Prevention and coping strategies: addressing future situations and reducing the risk of relapse.
Professional support helps children’s, adolescents, and adults overcome the effects of bullying, rebuild confidence, and develop emotional tools for a safer, healthier life.
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