Right under your nose.

• Author: Bair, Amy
• Position: Life In America - Cyberbullying

"... It is crucial for parents to be able to recognize the signs that their children may be cyberbullies, and to know how to handle and prevent this behavior. "

"NO, MY CHILD never would do that." Would this be your response if your offspring were accused of being a cyberbully? If so, you are not alone. For one thing, no parent wants to believe that his or her child is capable of teasing or harassing other youngsters. For another, cyberbullying is, by its very nature, a relatively easy behavior to keep under wraps: with the click of a mouse or the swipe of a finger, the evidence disappears and, most concerning of all, it is easy for kids to get caught up in this destructive behavior without initially realizing how dangerous and hurtful it is.

The rapidly expanding digital landscape has allowed bullying to spread beyond playgrounds and school hallways to computer screens, and smartphones. Since this is a pressing issue that can affect any family, it is crucial for parents to be able to recognize the signs that their children may be cyberbullies, and to know how to handle and prevent this behavior.

Specifically, tweens and teens--and, in some instances, even younger kids--who are engaged in cyberbullying often exhibit behavior changes, just as victims do. Watch for the following signs: stops using the computer when you come into the room or quickly change screens or tabs; sharply increase time spent on the computer or on a smartphone; appear stressed or secretive when using these devices, and may become anxious, upset, or excessively angry when you limit or take away access; spending more time with a new group of friends, or might no longer interact publicly with a longtime friend.

Regardless of whether your child's behavior fits into any of these categories, it is a good idea to bring up the topic of cyberbullying proactively. Make sure your kids know what cyberbullying is, why it is harmful, and what your expectations are for their online conduct. By keeping an ongoing dialogue going, you not only will gain insight into the digital world in which your kids live, but you may discover warning signs that your child's online group is participating in these types of activities.

Discuss the following topics with your children:

Joking vs. harassment. The line between harmless joking and mean, harassing behaviors often can be a fine one, and younger children especially may have trouble recognizing when they have crossed it. Explain that any online behavior that makes another person feel upset, threatened, hurt, mocked, etc. can be considered bullying. If your child knows that one of his peers is uncomfortable with a specific online interaction--or if a particular online behavior would make your...