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Schools from around the globe have turned to The Kids Research Institute Australia, seeking access to invaluable lessons learned from Australian students on how to effectively reduce harm from cyberbullying.

Professor Donna Cross’ innovative research aims to protect children from the harmful effects of online bullying.

In this video, Professor Donna Cross from the Telethon Kids Institute provides some practical advice on how to respond if your child is being bullied.

Young people’s use of mobile phones and access to the Internet has increased dramatically in the last decade, especially among those aged 9–15 years. Young people now rely on information and communication technology for much of their social interaction, which can have both positive and negative effects on their social and emotional well-being. Of particular concern is the extent to which digital technology (DT) provides opportunities for cyberbullying. 

Bullying behaviour often increases in late childhood and peaks in early adolescence. While interventions to address bullying behaviour typically encourage students to report bullying incidents to school staff, students are often reluctant to report incidents for fear it will worsen their situation or because they lack confidence in a staff members’ ability to intervene effectively. This study explores school staff responses to student reports of bullying behaviour.

Bullying is now regarded as a health problem and not just a disciplinary problem. Increasing evidence shows both traditional bullying (e.g. hitting, teasing) and cyberbullying have lasting effects on young people (both those who bully and those who are bullied), including damage to self-esteem, academic results and mental health.

Infographics to easily learn more about bullying and what actions to take should bullying be an issue in your school or community.