As social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and others continue to grow in popularity, new research suggests that these increased hours spent online may be associated with cyberbullying.

In a new study from researchers at the University of Utah and Iowa State University, the researchers found that teens who spend more time on social media sites like Facebook or Instagram are more likely to be victims or perpetrators of cyberbullying.

The study is one of the first to examine whether there is a link between time spent on social media and cyberbullying.

"This is an important issue because cyberbullying has been linked to anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation," said Sara Harberson, assistant professor of psychology at Utah and lead author of the study. "We need to better understand what causes it so we can help prevent it."

The study involved interviews with 903 middle school students from eight public schools in Salt Lake City about their experiences with bullying in person — such as being called names or pushed — as well as online — such as being teased by text message or on social media sites like Facebook or Instagram.

"The results suggest that even moderate levels of social media use may have a negative impact on mental health," said study researcher Elizabeth Miller, an assistant professor at University of San Diego School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences. "The negative effects were particularly strong among adolescents who experienced cyberbullying."

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is defined as "intentional harassment or intimidation of a person or group using electronic technology." It can include sending mean messages or images, sharing personal information without consent or spreading rumors about someone online. It's a serious problem affecting young people of all ages across the world.

Cyberbullies intentionally harass or intimidate others using electronic technology, including sending mean messages or images, posting personal information without consent, and spreading rumors online. It is noted that cyberbullying is usually more prevalent during the ages of 10 - 16, however just like with any form of bullying and harassment anyone of any age can be affected.

Are there any ways parents can help to help prevent cyberbullying?

There are a few ways we can help to prevent cyberbullying including:

1) Keep an eye on your kids' social media sites and make sure they know what to do if they see someone being cyberbullied.

2) Talk to your kids about how to respond when faced with bullying online or offline.

3) Teach them how to ask for help from a parent or other trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable about something happening online.

What should you do if you feel bullied or harassed online?

If believe you're being bullied or harassed online, the first course of action is to speak to someone about it, whether it is a fellow friend, colleague or parent.

Mental Health America, an organization in the United States dedicated to supporting people with mental health issues have some actionable tips which we've listed below.

If you’re being bullied or see someone being bullied, here are some things to do:

• Try to stay calm.

• Don’t let hurtful words beat you down.

• Be a friend - listen, support and speak up (especially if the situation is unsafe).

• Tell them to stop.

• Say nothing and walk away…if you need to, run away!

• Remember – bullies might be in pain, too.

• Get off the internet! Avoid checking the internet (even though you want to).

• Delete accounts where you are bullied. Take a screen shot so that you can share it with your parents or others for evidence and support.

• Don’t respond to online bullies – getting into online conversations/chats can make you feel worse.

• Brush it off with humor.

• Tell someone you trust – friend, parent, teacher, and mentor.

• Avoid “problematic areas” – areas around the neighborhood or school where bullying can happen.

• Safety in numbers - keep yourself surrounded by people.

• Spend more time with people who make you feel good about yourself (we like this one!).

• Don’t become a bully yourself. If you have – don’t give in to anger; don’t give in to peer pressure. If you can, be a friend – say sorry.

• Ask adults to listen. Tell them, “It’s important.”

• Recognize the signs of depression - sadness, wanting to be alone, poor concentration, sleeping problems, and difficulty in school.

• If you’re feeling very sad or unsafe – always, always find help (best to find a trusted adult).

• If you do not know who to talk to and you feel like you want to hurt yourself. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800.273.8255.

Here at The Frog Initiative, we strongly believe in helping as many people as possible and we know that bullying and harassment in any form is not acceptable and needs to be prevented.

For more tips and resources, please visit our website at https://froginitiative.org

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