2025 Cyberbullying (Created CL Young)
Cyberbullying, once a hot-button issue that dominated discussions about children’s and teens’ online safety, might seem like a relic of the past. After all, haven’t young people moved on from the days of hurtful comments in online forums and social media? While traditional forms of cyberbullying among children may decline, the reality is far more nuanced. Cyberbullying has strengthened, shifting its focus and finding new avenues to inflict harm in the digital age.
The Changing Landscape of Cyberbullying Among Youth
Recent studies suggest a decrease in traditional cyberbullying among children. For instance, data from the Cyberbullying Research Center reveals a significant drop in reported cyberbullying incidents among 13——to 17-year-olds, from 51% in 2019 to 23% in 2021 [1]. This decline could be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness, improved online safety measures, and a shift in how young people use online platforms.
Instead of primarily using online spaces for social interaction, where negativity and bullying could occur, today’s youth increasingly engage in online spaces for creative expression, such as sharing their talents and connecting with peers more positively. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube have become hubs for dancing, singing, and vlogging, where young people showcase their individuality and build communities around shared interests [2]. This shift towards creative expression and positive online engagement may contribute to the decline in traditional cyberbullying. With 95% of teens online, primarily through mobile devices, cyberbullying has become incredibly accessible and pervasive [3]. Even younger children, specifically tweens between 9 and 12 years old, are not immune, with one in five experiencing cyberbullying, witnessing it, or engaging in it themselves [4].
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that cyberbullying among children hasn’t vanished entirely. It has simply morphed into more subtle forms. While overt harassment might be less prevalent, children still experience online negativity, exclusion, and subtle forms of aggression. The anonymity of the internet and the prevalence of social media provide fertile ground for these less obvious forms of cyberbullying to thrive. These subtle forms can include name-calling, the spread of rumors, and even sending explicit images [2]. Alarmingly, 28% of teens report experiencing multiple types of cyberbullying [5]. Research indicates that those who experience both cyberbullying and traditional bullying face the highest levels of distress, including an increased risk of depression and suicide attempts [6].
The Rise of Adult Cyberbullying
While cyberbullying among children might decrease, a disturbing trend is emerging: the rise of cyberbullying among adults. Studies show that a significant portion of online harassment now targets adults, those in the 45-65 age range. This demographic, often less familiar with the nuances of online etiquette and digital communication, can be vulnerable to online aggression [2]. This is clear in online gaming communities, where a staggering 60% of adult gamers report experiencing severe harassment [7].
The motivations behind adult cyberbullying are diverse, often stemming from real-world conflicts and societal divisions. Political differences, disagreements on climate change, and even dietary choices (like veganism) can become flashpoints for online hostility. Adults, perhaps more entrenched in their beliefs and less tolerant of opposing viewpoints, may resort to cyberbullying to express their frustration or assert their opinions.
Cyberbullying can have a profound psychological impact on adults, particularly women. While research shows that older teen girls are especially vulnerable to cyberbullying related to their appearance [5], this vulnerability can extend into adulthood. Societal pressures and insecurities surrounding body image and self-esteem can make women
more susceptible to online harassment and its emotional consequences. The constant barrage of negative comments and online attacks can erode self-confidence and contribute to anxiety, depression, and even feelings of isolation.
The Blurred Lines Between Reality and the Digital World
One of the most concerning aspects of cyberbullying, particularly for adults, is the blurring of lines between the digital world and real-life interactions. Many adults may not fully grasp algorithms, bots, and those seeking to spread misinformation and sow discord can manipulate how much online spaces.
- Echo Chambers and Filter Bubbles: Social media algorithms show us content that aligns with our existing beliefs and interests. This can create “echo chambers” and “filter bubbles” where we’re only exposed to information that reinforces our views, making it difficult to see alternative perspectives or challenge our own biases.
- The Rise of the Bots: AI-powered bots are increasingly prevalent on social media. They often engage in conversations and debates, sometimes even
- mimicking human behavior. This can make distinguishing between real people and automated accounts difficult, leading to misinterpretations and misdirected anger.
- The Illusion of Consensus: When we’re constantly exposed to information and opinions that align with our own, it can create a false sense of consensus, leading us to believe that our views are more widely held than they actually are. This can further reinforce our biases and make us less tolerant of those with different opinions.
The consequences of this blurred reality can be significant:
- Misdirected Anger and Fear: Adults may misdirect their anger and fear towards individuals or groups based on misinformation and biased narratives they encounter online. This can lead to prejudice, discrimination, and even real-world harm.
- Social Isolation: The constant negativity and conflict on social media can make it challenging to maintain healthy relationships and engage in meaningful social interactions. This can lead to isolation and loneliness, even when surrounded by people.
- Perpetuating Stereotypes: Social media can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and biases by amplifying adverse or isolated incidents involving specific groups. This can further fuel discrimination and prejudice, both online and offline.
To navigate this complex digital landscape, adults must develop critical thinking and media literacy skills. Today’s youths find many adults gullible and unworthy of giving advice. By questioning the information they encounter, seeking diverse perspectives, and engaging in respectful dialogue, they can avoid falling prey to misinformation and manipulation.
Grandparents: The Unexpected Cyberbullies
Changing Roles and Expectations
The role of grandparents in society has undergone a significant transformation. Traditionally viewed as nurturing figures who provide love and support, some grandparents are now actively contributing to the problem of cyberbullying. This shift
challenges the conventional image of grandparents and raises questions about the changing dynamics within families.
It’s a far cry from the grandparents of the 1980s, often from the Silent Generation, who prioritized family unity and kept their opinions to themselves. They were the peacemakers, the glue that held families together. They cooked meals, babysat grandchildren, and rarely,
if ever, voiced controversial opinions. Their focus was on maintaining harmony and strengthening family bonds.
Today, the roles have reversed. Millennials, now parents themselves, mediate between their children and their parents or grandparents. This generation, raised with a stronger emphasis on open communication and mutual respect, often clashes with the more traditional expectations of older generations.
“Respect Your Elders” vs. “Mutual Respect”
Respect for elders, a cornerstone of older generations’ upbringing, often translates to demands for unquestioning obedience from younger people. Millennials often challenge this traditional belief. Millennials parents often demand blind faith, a respect earned by today’s grandparents’ parents’ hard work. Concluded by the stories millennial parents share about their own great childhood, which the millennials feel did not get passed on in their childhood.
This clash of values can create tension and conflict within families, with millennials caught in the middle, trying to balance their respect for their elders with their desire to raise their children in a more open and accepting environment.
The Millennial Mediator: A Balancing Act
In this developing landscape of family dynamics, millennials often mediate and navigating different generations’ differing expectations and communication styles. They
strive to respect their elders while setting boundaries and advocating for their children’s right to express themselves freely and safely.
This challenging mediating role requires patience, empathy, and strong communication skills. But it’s also an opportunity for millennials to bridge the generational gap and foster a more understanding and inclusive family environment.
However, millennials disagree on the best way to handle this delicate balancing act. Some people believe in setting clear limits with their parents and speaking up if they see their parents mistreating their children. They prioritize their children’s well-being and emotional safety, recognizing that the younger generation is the future and deserves to be treated with respect and understanding.
Others take a more passive approach out of love and respect for their parents. They might explain to their children that their grandparents are “from a different time” and encourage them to be patient and understanding. They may hope that time and generational change will eventually resolve the issue.
This division among millennials reflects the complexity of navigating intergenerational relationships in the digital age. There’s no simple answer, and each family must find its
way to balance respect for elders with the need to protect and empower the younger generation.
The Fear of Lasting Damage
Underlying this division is a fear among many millennials that their parents’ behavior could have a lasting impact on their children. They may have witnessed or experienced firsthand the negative consequences of unchecked negativity and disrespect from older generations, and they’re determined to protect their children from similar harm. They worry about the potential damage to their children’s self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being.
This fear is not unfounded. Research has shown that exposure to harmful or abusive behavior, even from family members, can have long-term consequences for children’s mental and emotional health (Anda et al., 2006). Aware of these potential risks, Millennials are taking a stand to protect their children and create a more positive and supportive family environment.
Digital Divide and Online Behavior
While many grandparents embrace their role as loving and supportive figures, some may struggle to adapt to the digital age and the changing social norms surrounding online communication. Having witnessed or even experienced bullying in their youth, they may not fully grasp the severity and impact of their online actions. This generational gap in understanding online etiquette and the potential for harm can contribute to the perpetuation of cyberbullying. They might engage in online negativity, criticism, and even cyberbullying without fully understanding the consequences of their actions.
Impact on Family Dynamics
The irony is striking: older generations often criticize today’s youth for their online behavior, yet they sometimes exhibit similar, if not worse, negativity in their own digital interactions. This disconnect highlights the need for greater awareness and education about online etiquette and the potential for harm, regardless of age. This also
emphasizes a crucial point: negativity and harmful behaviors can be pervasive across generations, and self-reflection is essential for fostering positive online interactions. It’s not just about teaching young people about online etiquette; it’s about encouraging everyone, regardless of age, to be mindful of their online actions and their potential impact on others.
Conclusion: Cyberbullying in the Digital Age
Cyberbullying, though developing, remains a persistent problem in the digital age. While traditional forms of cyberbullying among children may be declining, it has found new avenues to thrive, particularly among adults. Shifting grandparental roles and generational differences in online etiquette further complicate this issue.
Ultimately, addressing cyberbullying requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased awareness, education, and empathy are crucial to fostering a more positive and respectful online environment. By understanding the evolving nature of cyberbullying and promoting responsible digital citizenship, we can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive online world for all.
To combat cyberbullying effectively, individuals, families, and communities can take several actionable steps:
Promote empathy and understanding: Encourage open conversations about online behavior and its potential impact on others. Help individuals develop empathy and understand the consequences of their actions in the digital world.
Encourage bystander intervention: Empower individuals to confront cyberbullying when they witness it. Bystander intervention can be a powerful tool in disrupting harmful online behavior and creating a culture of support.
Advocate for stricter online safety measures: Support legislation and policies that promote online safety and hold social media platforms accountable for addressing cyberbullying and harassment.
Educate yourself and others: Stay informed about the latest trends in cyberbullying and online safety. Share information and resources with others to raise awareness of and promote responsible digital citizenship.
Bridge the Generational Divide: Encourage intergenerational dialogue and support to help older adults navigate the complexities of the digital world and develop critical thinking and media literacy skills.
By working together and taking proactive steps, we can create a digital world where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered.
References
Anda, R. F., Felitti, V. J., Bremner, J. D., Walker, J. D., Whitfield, C. L., Perry, B. D., Giles, W. H., & (2006). The enduring effects of abuse and related adverse experiences in childhood: A convergence of evidence from1 neurobiology and epidemiology. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 256(3),2 174–186.
Annapolis Police Department. (n.d.). Facts about cyberbullying. City of Annapolis. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.annapolis.gov/908/Facts-About-Cyberbullying
Brightpath Behavioral Health. (n.d.). Teenage cyberbullying statistics. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.brightpathbh.com/teenage-cyberbullying-statistics/
Cyberbullying Research Center. (2021). School bullying has decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but schools must be prepared for its return. Child Trends. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.childtrends.org/publications/school-bullying-has-decreased-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-but-schools-must-be-prepared-for-its-return
DoSomething.org. (n.d.). 11 facts about cyberbullying. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://dosomething.org/article/11-facts-about-cyber-bullying
Exploding Topics. (2023, November 14). Cyberbullying stats. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://explodingtopics.com/blog/cyberbullying-stats
Hinduja, S., & Patchin, J. W. (2019). Cyberbullying identification, prevention, and response. Cyberbullying Research Center.
Kowalski, R. M., Giumetti, G. W., Schroeder, A. N., & Lattanner, M. R. (2014). Cyberbullying: Bullying in the digital age. Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Nagata, J. M., Ayon, C., Barile, J. P., & Zwolinski, S. (2022). Social epidemiology of early adolescent cyberbullying in the United States. JAMA Network Open, 5(11), e2240844.
PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center. (n.d.). Bullying statistics. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.pacer.org/bullying/info/stats.asp
Pew Research Center. (2022, December 15). Teens and cyberbullying 2022. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2022/12/15/teens-and-cyberbullying-2022/
