How cyber bullying is affecting the mental health of kids and teens

A recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati? featuring a 10-year-old contestant has sparked widespread debate online.

While some viewers were curious about the so-called “Six Pocket Syndrome,” others turned their attention to trolling and cyberbullying the child across social media platforms.

This incident has once again brought to light the rising cases of cyberbullying among children and teenagers in India.

According to global surveys covering 24 countries, India ranks the highest, with nearly 32% of children reporting experiences of online harassment. Experts warn that while this statistic is alarming, the true mental and emotional toll of such online abuse often goes unnoticed.

Developmental and behavioural specialists emphasise that public humiliation and online targeting can have long-term effects on a child’s developing brain. They point out that cyberbullying can lead to deep emotional distress, including anxiety, low self-esteem, shame, confusion, and even depression.

What adults might dismiss as harmless online comments can, in reality, feel deeply personal and damaging to a child who is still forming their sense of identity.

Cyberbullying refers to repeated online behaviour intended to harass, humiliate, or intimidate others. It can occur through social media posts, messages, gaming platforms, or email, often involving actions like spreading false information, sharing private photos or videos, impersonating someone, or sending abusive messages.

What makes cyberbullying particularly harmful is its persistence. It can happen 24/7. The same goes for its permanence, since online posts leave a lasting digital footprint. Unlike traditional bullying, online harassment can be difficult for parents or teachers to detect, as it often happens in private digital spaces.

The impact on children and teens can be severe. Victims may show signs of emotional withdrawal, sudden mood changes, anxiety, or loss of interest in daily activities. Some may struggle with physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, or changes in appetite. In extreme cases, cyberbullying has been linked to self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

To address the growing crisis, mental health experts recommend preventive strategies such as encouraging empathy online, using strong privacy settings, and avoiding engagement with bullies. Parents are urged to monitor their child’s digital activity, set parental controls, and teach them to protect personal information.

In India, serious cases of cyberbullying can be reported through government initiatives like the Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) portal, which allows victims or guardians to file complaints directly with authorities.