Key Takeaways:
- Cyberbullying is the repeated and intentional use of electronic communications to humiliate, intimidate, harass, frighten or threaten another person.
- Social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, Snapchat and gaming chatrooms are common environments where cyberbullying occurs.
- Adolescents and teenagers are particularly vulnerable, with the anonymity of the internet making it easier for perpetrators to operate.
- Warning signs include emotional distress, behavioural changes, academic decline, and unexplained physical symptoms.
- In South Africa, suicide accounts for 9.5% of all unnatural teen deaths, with persistent bullying identified as a contributing factor.
- South African law provides recourse for victims through the Cyber Crime Act 2020, the Protection of Harassment Act 2008, the Child Justice Act 2011, and the South African Schools Act.
- Schools and the state can be held liable if they are made aware of bullying and fail to intervene.
- Evidence must always be preserved, including the post date and the name of the person who posted it.
What is cyberbullying and why is it a growing problem in South Africa?
The rise of social media and digital communication channels has facilitated the spread of cyberbullying, with platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, Snapchat and gaming chatrooms serving as rife breeding grounds for perpetrators to launch their attacks. Cyberbullying and cyberstalking are defined as the repeated and intentional use of electronic communications to humiliate, intimidate, harass, frighten or threaten another person, explains Candice Toprek, Underwriting Lead: Personal Cyber at iTOO Special Risks.
“Our youth are increasingly exposed to tools and apps that make it very easy for them to produce fake videos or manipulate photos, create memes and or use text to engage in cyberbullying,” she says.
“Adolescents and teenagers are particularly vulnerable, with incidents ranging from online harassment to the malicious sharing of private information or images without their consent. The anonymity afforded by the internet supports perpetrators, exacerbating this problem even further.”
How does cyberbullying affect a child’s mental health?
Victims of cyberbullying often experience heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, which can impact their mental health and well-being. Unfortunately, this form of abuse severely affects a child’s identity and self-worth and often leads to long-term negative effects such as the inability to form meaningful and sustainable relationships, as well as trust issues and mental health problems.
Read more about the impact of cyberbullying on the mental health of teenagers.
“Often parents are completely unaware that their child is being cyberbullied, as the victims feel a sense of shame and isolation and believe that the situation will never end. While the consequences of cyberbullying can be profound and long-lasting, affecting both victims and perpetrators, as parents, guardians, or educators, it is essential to remain vigilant and attuned to potential signs of cyberbullying among children and adolescents,” says Toprek.
What are the warning signs that a child is being cyberbullied?
Some warning signs that may indicate that a child is experiencing cyberbullying include:
- Emotional distress: sudden mood swings, anxiety, depression or withdrawal from social activities
- Change in behaviour: noticeable changes in behaviour patterns, such as reluctance to use electronic devices, avoiding certain social media platforms, or secretive behaviour regarding online activities
- Academic decline: a sudden decline in academic performance or concentration levels
- Physical symptoms: complaints of headaches, stomach aches or difficulty sleeping without any underlying medical cause might be indicative of the psychological toll of cyberbullying
If you notice these warning signs, Childline South Africa offers 24/7 support at 116 for children experiencing distress.
What are the consequences of cyberbullying on South African youth?
In South Africa, suicide accounts for 9.5% of all unnatural teen deaths. The National Youth Risk Behaviour Survey shows that 17.6% of teens have considered attempting suicide, while 31.5% of teen suicide attempts required medical treatment.
“In an attempt to proactively prevent victims of cyberbullying from self-harm and suicide, school children can now seek a protective order against their perpetrators. A minor (aged 10 and older) who is found guilty of cyberbullying can face a period of imprisonment,” says Toprek.
What laws protect South African children from cyberbullying?
She notes that despite various pieces of legislation being in place, including the South African Schools Act, the Cyber Crime Act 2020, the Protection of Harassment Act 2008 and the Child Justice Act 2011, the government continues to see a rise in cases of bullying. Additionally, the Department of Basic Education has noted an increase in the number of children committing suicide as a result of persistent bullying.
“It is important to note that the state and educational institutions can be held liable for any damage, injury or loss suffered by a pupil. For example, if the school is made aware of a pupil being bullied but fails to intervene then the school can be held liable for the physical and emotional harm to the victim,” says Toprek.
These statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive protection strategies that combine legal intervention, educational awareness, and financial safeguards, such as personal cyber insurance.
What should you do if your child is being cyberbullied?
She says that cyberbullying in South Africa poses a significant threat to the well-being and safety of the country’s youth. By staying informed about its trends, recognising warning signs, and understanding the consequences for victims and perpetrators, proactive steps can be taken to combat destructive behaviour.
“Furthermore, it is imperative that if your child is being cyberbullied the evidence is not destroyed. Ensure that the post, text or image, along with the date and the name of the person who posted it, is always retained,” she says.
“It is time for parents, educators and the broader community to work collaboratively to create a safer online environment where cyberbullying has no place. Together, we can empower our youth to navigate the digital world with resilience, empathy and respect.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the repeated and intentional use of electronic communications to humiliate, intimidate, harass, frighten or threaten another person.
/What are the warning signs of cyberbullying in children?
Warning signs include emotional distress, sudden changes in behaviour, academic decline, and unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches or difficulty sleeping.
Is cyberbullying illegal in South Africa?
Yes. South Africa’s Cyber Crime Act 2020, Protection of Harassment Act 2008, Child Justice Act 2011, and the South African Schools Act all provide legal recourse for victims of cyberbullying.
Can a school be held liable for cyberbullying?
Yes. If a school is made aware of bullying and fails to intervene, it can be held liable for the physical and emotional harm suffered by the victim.
What should I do if my child is being cyberbullied?
Preserve all evidence, including the post, text or image, the date, and the name of the person who posted it and report it to the school and relevant authorities.Add question
This content provides guidance for South African parents, guardians, and educators navigating cyberbullying and online safety concerns affecting children and teenagers. For specific legal or cyber insurance advice tailored to your situation, consult qualified legal professionals or insurance specialists familiar with South African regulations and market conditions.