Cyberbullying is the use of active psychological violence, which can be maintained 24 hours a day due to information technology. It is extremely common among children and adolescents and has many negative consequences. Children who are victims of cyberbullying are prone to high levels of stress and anxiety, impaired mental and active life, and reduced academic performance. Thereby, one can open a debatable question about whether it is worth setting age limits for social networks and online games.
As practice shows, cyberbullying has now become a global problem. Thus, an important task is to limit children from the detrimental consequences of this phenomenon. Children’s psyche is very plastic and subject to external influences; therefore, it is necessary to establish an age limit that prevents children from using social networks. This age should vary between 12 and 15 years. By this age, teenagers are formed as independent individuals and can resist bullying. At the same time, for online games, this age can be shifted from 10 to 12 years, since game partners are usually one-time and do not pose a constant threat.
However, this does not mean a complete ban on social networks. Social media is an integral part of the life of every person and its absolute limitation can cause justified discontent and aggression in a teenager. In this regard, they must have access to virtual life every day, but for a certain time set by their parents or caregivers. In addition, adults should be present close to the child, but not try to follow his actions for no apparent reason. This can be regarded by a teenager as an invasion of privacy and cause a violent negative reaction.
Fighting cyberbullying can be extremely difficult, but it is possible. First of all, this is the task of adults, who must establish a trusting relationship with the child so that he can share his problem. It is necessary to take screenshots of all actions and statements that are in the nature of psychological violence. This will be a real confirmation of the crime that has occurred. After that, it is worth blocking the offender in order to avoid further danger. In the event that cyberattacks continue, it is important for the adult responsible for the child to notify the educational institution and law enforcement agencies.
However, it should be understood that cyberbullying is an acute social problem that has ways to prevent it. The duty of adults in this case have to teach children the rules of etiquette and behavior in social networks. Since they are part of real life, the rules of ethics apply to them. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of each user to secure all his accounts by establishing passwords. Finally, any open confrontation and possible conflict can be avoided.
For those who are just starting to use these social networks, I would give some advice. The main thing is that children and teenagers should not follow absolutely every person they know. In addition, if possible, you need to make your profile private, so the cybercriminal will have less chance of offending someone. Moreover, it should be remembered that victims of bullying experience serious psychological problems, thus, it is important not to displease anyone. From the side of teachers and parents, advice can be given about obsessive tracking of children’s lives. This will save them from unnecessary stress and prevent them from becoming victims of cybercrime. In addition, lectures should be held on how to deal with offenders on the Internet and who should be contacted in such cases.