Understand and counter
Cyberbullying
Information for parents
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the use of the Internet, social media, text messages, or other technologies to harass, threaten, or humiliate someone. This can include insulting messages, spreading false rumors, sharing embarrassing photos, or intentionally excluding someone from an online conversation. Cyberbullying can happen at any time, and its impact is often magnified by the often public and ongoing nature of the Internet.
Why is cyberbullying so dangerous?
Cyberbullying can have serious consequences on young people’s mental and emotional health. Unlike in-person bullying, it can happen at any time, even in the safety of home. Young victims can more easily feel isolated, helpless, and as if the bullying will never stop. This can lead to self-confidence issues, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. It is therefore crucial to recognize and address these situations quickly.
In Quebec, cyberbullying can be considered a criminal act, depending on its nature and severity. Laws, such as the Criminal Code of Canada, may apply in cases where there are threats, criminal harassment, or damage to reputation. As a parent, you may consider filing a complaint with law enforcement if the bullying becomes serious or persistent.
The role of the school
As a parent, it is important to understand the role that schools can play in protecting your child from cyberbullying and helping them cope with it. Here are some key areas to consider:
Anti-bullying and violence plan
The main purpose of this plan is to prevent and address any form of bullying and violence against students, teachers and other school staff members. Once the plan has been adopted, the school board ensures that a clear and accessible document is distributed to parents.
Contact the school to get clarification on their procedures and how they can help your child.
- Video capsule on the Plan to combat bullying and violence (in french)
- Mandatory training for GB members (in french CSS) : The plan to combat bullying and violence
Communication with the school
Make an appointment with teachers and school staff to explain the situation. They can monitor what is happening at school and offer additional support to your child, whether through direct interventions or adjustments to foster a safe and caring environment.
Peer support
Some schools are setting up peer support groups, where students can connect and help each other overcome difficult situations, including cyberbullying.
Please continue to monitor interventions closely and maintain an open dialogue with the school to ensure your child is receiving the necessary support.
How to recognize the signs of cyberbullying?
There are some signs that your child may be a victim of cyberbullying:
Mood swings
Your child seems anxious, sad, or angry after using their phone or computer.
Social withdrawal
He avoids social activities, suddenly withdraws from social media, or shows apprehension about going to school.
Drop in academic performance
He experiences a sudden drop in academic performance, lacks motivation, or loses interest in activities he previously enjoyed.
Secrecy about online activities
He becomes secretive about his online activities, hides his screen when a parent enters the room, or quickly switches windows while on his device.
Prevention tips
Encourage respectful online behavior
Talk to your child regularly about the importance of respect online. Explain to him the consequences of bullying, both for the victim and the perpetrator.
Teach your child how to protect their personal information
Make sure your child understands the importance of protecting their passwords, limiting the personal information shared online, and checking the privacy settings of their accounts.
Be a positive role model
Set an example by using social media respectfully yourself. Talk openly about appropriate behavior and the importance of respecting others, even online.
How to help your child
to deal with cyberbullying
Create a safe space to talk
Encourage your child to talk to you without judgment. Make sure they feel comfortable sharing their experiences, and avoid minimizing their emotions.
Keep evidence
Take screenshots of messages, posts, or images. This evidence can be useful to report the incident to the school, the relevant platforms, or even the authorities.
Report abusive behavior
Contact the school if cyberbullying involves students. You can also report the content on relevant social media and, if necessary: file complaints with the authorities.
Seek professional help
If your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, or showing signs of distress due to cyberbullying, consider consulting a mental health professional.
Don’t underestimate the impacts of cyberbullying
and don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Resources
Cyberbullying is a serious problem that affects everyone, but with the right approach and appropriate resources, it is possible to combat it. Listen, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to use the help available in Quebec to support your child. As a parent, your support is essential to help your child overcome this ordeal and build resilience to the challenges of the digital world.
Intervention and support
If you need immediate assistance, contact 911
Parents Line
For all parents in Quebec, available 24/7.
1 800 361-5085
ligneparents.com
Tel-Jeunes
For young people under 20, by phone, text and chat.
1 800 263-2266
teljeunes.com
Youth Help Phone
For children, teens and young adults, 24/7.
1 800 668-6868
kidshelpphone.ca
AidezMoiSVP.ca
For young people aged 13 to 17, to help them deal with a situation of cyberbullying. Also offers resources for parents and adults.
needhelpnow.ca
Quebec Suicide Prevention Center
Speakers available at all times for the person themselves or a loved one.
1 866 CALL (1 866 277-3553)
cpsquebec.ca
Tools
The Anti-Troll Kit
Free intervention and awareness-raising tools, as well as informative video clips in which children aged 8 to 11 and adolescents aged 12 to 17 speak to their peers. An initiative of the Traois-Rivières Police Department.
latrousseanti-troll.com
+FORT
A mobile application that offers support to young victims of bullying to better understand what they are experiencing and to try strategies to reduce the bullying they experience.
centreaxel.com
Tel-Jeunes
Learn how to recognize bullying and find out how to cope with it.
Bullying
Jeunesse, J’écoute
Guide to understanding and acting in situations of bullying and harassment.
Cyberbullying: Definition and Solutions
Institut Pacifique
Tools to better understand and take action against bullying.
institutpacifique.com | intimidation
SPVM
Information and tools for parents to take action when faced with bullying and cyberbullying.
Intimidation
Cyberbullying
Educaloi
Legal Perspectives on School Bullying and Cyberbullying.
Bullying and violence at school
Cyberbullying: prohibited actions
National Student Protector
Responsible for the complaints and reporting mechanism in the Quebec school network.
1 833 420-5233
Website of the National Student Protector