While all generations have experienced bullying in one form or another, teens these days definitely seem to have it worse, thanks to technology and the increase in online harassment. But just how bad is cyberbullying?
Well, according to a new Pew Research poll, 59% of teens say they’ve experienced at least one of six types of online abusive behavior, with offensive name-calling the most prevalent form, with 42% of teens saying they’ve been called names either online or on their cellphone. Other forms of cyberbullying include:
- Spreading of false rumors (32%)
- Receiving explicit images they didn’t ask for (25%)
- Having someone other than a parent constantly ask where they are, who they’re with or what they’re doing (21%)
- Target of physical threats (16%)
- Having explicit images shared without their consent (7%)
The survey finds that for the most part teen boys and girls are equally likely to experience online harassment, although the types of cyberbullying they experience are likely to be different. For example, girls are more likely than boys to have false rumors spread about them (39% vs. 26%) and they are also more likely to receive explicit images (29% vs. 20%). Girls are also more likely than boys to be the subject of more than one form of online bullying, with 15% of girls saying they’ve experienced at least four types, while only 6% of boys say the same. Overall, though, 40% of teens say they’ve experienced two or more types of cyberbullying.
- Not surprising, 90% of teens say online harassment is a problem for kids their age, while 63% would classify it as a major problem. And while parents, teachers, law enforcement and more are trying to do things to address online bullying, only parents are getting high marks for their efforts. In fact, 59% of teens view their parents' efforts favorably, while teens think teachers, law enforcement, bystanders, social media sites and elected officials are all doing a poor job.
Source: Pew Research