WHAT signs may indicate your child is being bullied?
Your child's behaviour can change for a variety of reasons. However, the following signs could indicate your child is being bullied:
- not wanting to go to school or participate in school activities
- does not appear to have friends
- is missing belongings
- has torn clothing
- seems to have become fearful and anxious
- has more mood swings, and seems to be crying more
- seems to have a drop in academic performance
- has poorer physical health and changes in sleep habits
- has increased negative self-perception.
The signs of possible cyberbullying can be the same as signs of other bullying, but include certain behaviour with phones and computers, for example:
- being hesitant about going online
- seeming nervous when an instant message, text message or email appears
- being visibly upset after using the computer or mobile phone, or suddenly avoiding it
- minimising the computer screen, or hiding the mobile phone when you enter the room
- spending unusually long hours online in a more tense, pensive tone
- receiving suspicious phone calls, emails or packages
- withdrawing from friends, falling behind in schoolwork, or avoiding school.