A recent report by the World Health Organization Europe has highlighted a concerning trend: cyberbullying among children aged 11 to 15 surged to 16 per cent in 2022 from 13 per cent four years prior. Covering 44 countries, the report sheds light on the growing prevalence of cyberbullying, particularly among adolescents.
Released on Wednesday, the report titled ‘Health Behaviour in School-aged Children’ reveals that 15 per cent of boys and 16 per cent of girls reported experiencing cyberbullying at least once in recent months. This increase in virtual forms of peer violence has been attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic, which forced young people into virtual environments during lockdowns.
Hans Kluge, the WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasized the urgency of addressing cyberbullying and violence. He described the report as a wake-up call for everyone to confront these issues whenever and wherever they occur.
The findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle cyberbullying and support young people in navigating digital spaces safely. As technology continues to play an increasingly significant role in children’s lives, proactive measures to address cyberbullying are essential to safeguard their well-being and mental health.
