What is a common emotional effect of cyberbullying on children?

Cyberbullying can have profound emotional effects on children, and one of the most common responses is withdrawal and depression. Children who experience cyberbullying often feel isolated, humiliated, and anxious due to the harassment they face online. This emotional distress can lead them to withdraw from social situations, avoid interactions with peers, and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Depression may also set in as they struggle to cope with feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and helplessness.

While the other options suggest positive emotional outcomes, they are not typically associated with the experience of being cyberbullied. Increased confidence and enhanced social skills would be counterintuitive responses to bullying, which typically erodes self-esteem and social ties. A heightened sense of security is also unlikely, as the anonymity of online bullying can create a feeling of vulnerability and fear instead of safety. Therefore, withdrawal and depression represent the most accurate emotional consequences for children affected by cyberbullying.