Steps parents can take to help their teens handle cyberbullying
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Over the last several years cyberbullying has become prevalent, especially amongst teenagers.
"Teens are becoming more savvy and creating fake accounts of other individuals and that's even more harmful," said Dr. Reena B. Patel, a licensed child psychologist.
Dr. Patel went on to say that this is a way teens can hide and be even more aggressive online.
"You know your kid the best," she explained. The doctor recommends parents make sure that they are looking out for signs of fear, isolation and any sudden changes in their behavior.
Another way to protect children is to turn off the tagging or create their account on your own social media, so that you have access to it. If a child has their own phone you can do periodic phone checks.
Dr. Patel also says a good rule of thumb when posting to social media is to ask yourself these three questions:
- Is it kind?
- Is it useful?
- Is it meaningful?
After answering those questions, then consider posting.
