The’World Health Organisation (WHO) published the second volume of the HBSC (Health Behaviour in School-aged Children) study on patterns of bullying and violence among adolescents in over 40 countries.
According to the data collected, approximately 11 % for adolescents claim to have been victims of bullying at school, a figure that has remained relatively stable since 2018.
However, it is the sharp rise in cyberbullying which causes the most concern. Indeed, 16 % for 11-15 year olds claimed to have been bullied online in 2022, marking a a 3.1% increase in just four years. This development reflects the growing threat posed by digital violence to mental health teenagers.
The study also reveals figures on perpetrators. 1 in 8 teenagers admits to having already intimidated other people, with a ratio of 14:1 among boys and 9:1 among girls.
A spike in cyberbullying among 11- to 13-year-olds
One peak of cyberbullying is also observed in children aged 11 to 13. A critical transition period in young people's development that appears to be associated with increased vulnerability to online violence.
The importance of online age verification
In light of these findings, it is crucial to emphasise the importance of establishing a system of age verification on social media. Because, even though these platforms are theoretically not suitable for children under 13 years of age, A large number of teenagers sign up for these sites, exposing themselves to numerous risks, such as digital violence.
