Online Bullying

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Online bullying is behaviour that takes place online. It might be nasty comments made under photographs, people making fun of you over voice chat, or messages sent to chat apps teasing you. This bullying type behaviour happens using phones, tablets, online games or on any other digital technology device.

Sometimes we can even be mean to others online ourselves. This might be because we’re angry or upset at that person or because we’re in a bad mood. Sometimes we can think that something we’ve said online is funny, but it might actually hurt the other person’s feelings. You might not even realise that what you have said could hurt the other person’s feelings because you’re not there in person to see their reaction.

What you need to know

It is really important that we all learn what bullying type behaviour is. If we understand what it is, we will be able to recognise it when we see it happen and be able to take action to help stop it, whether we are experiencing, doing or watching this type of behaviour.

You should also know what to do if you or someone else is experiencing bullying type behaviour online and who you can go to talk to.

Here’s the important things to know about bullying type behaviour:

What is online bullying type behaviour?

Bullying type behaviour is using the internet, like websites, email, online games to target and repeatedly threaten, tease, upset or humiliate someone else with the intent to cause harm. It could be making fun of the way someone looks, calling them names because they lost a game, or sending memes to your friends making fun of someone in your class.

Telling an adult that you trust.

If you are experiencing or see someone else experiencing bullying type behaviour tell a trusted adult right away. A trusted adult could be someone in your family, someone who cares for you, a care worker, a teacher or another adult in your school or club that you trust and feel safe with. If you want to speak to someone else then Childline is a safe space where you can talk about absolutely anything! You can contact Childline for free on 0800 1111, or visit the Childline website to find out how to use the 1-2-1 chat.

Keeping evidence.

It’s important that you keep a record of any bullying type behaviour. For example, if you or someone you know is sent a nasty message, then you should take a screenshot of it and show this to your trusted adult.

Blocking and reporting.

Learn how to block and report people on the apps, websites and games you use. Blocking will stop that person from being able to contact you on that account. You should also report nasty comments, posts, and messages you see, even if the bullying type behaviour isn’t aimed at you.

How to be kind online.

Remember not to be mean to others online, even if they have upset you. Everybody can help make the online world a nicer place, just by being kind…and by making someone smile, you could also ‘make’ their day!

Get Support

Police Service of Northern Ireland

If someone or something is making you feel scared, threatened or distressed, report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Trusted Adults

If you are worried or concerned about something, please make sure you speak to an adult you trust.

Childline

You can contact Childline about anything. Whatever your worry, it’s better out than in. They’re here to support you.

Text-A-Nurse

This is a local service service for confidential text messaging support for 11-19 year olds.

Learn More

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