“Digital Self-Harm: The Growing Problem You’ve Never Heard Of”

Digital self-harm, as defined by the Cyberbullying Research Center, involves the “anonymous online posting, sending, or sharing of hurtful content about oneself.” This behavior may seem counterintuitive at first glance, as we typically associate cyberbullying with external aggression. However, it’s a growing phenomenon, with rates rising from 4-6% in 2016 to 9-12% in 2021 among middle and high school students.

Why do youths engage in digital self-harm? This article from The Cyberbullying Research Center delves into this question. As parents, teachers, counselors, or anyone interacting with young people, it’s crucial to recognize that digital self-harm exists. By staying informed, we can better understand and address this complex issue.

~ Ryan