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What Parents Can Do When Their Child Is Being Cyberbullied
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs through digital devices like phones or computers. Parents can respond by talking openly with their child, setting clear technology rules, teaching kindness online, and seeking help from school staff or mental health professionals if the bullying persists.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 11. Talk calmly with your child about their online experiences and feelings.
- 22. Review and adjust privacy settings and parental controls on devices.
- 33. Establish or revisit a Family Technology Agreement that includes rules about respectful online behavior and reporting bullying.
What to say
- “I'm here to listen whenever something online makes you upset or uncomfortable.”
- “Remember, you can always come to me if someone is being mean to you on the internet.”
- “Let's work together to figure out how to stay safe and happy online.”
What to practice consistently
- Regularly co-view or co-use digital media to stay engaged with your child's online world.
- Model respectful and kind behavior in your own digital interactions.
- Maintain open, ongoing conversations about online safety, privacy, and kindness.
What to avoid
- Ignoring or minimizing your child's reports of cyberbullying.
- Responding with anger or punishment without understanding the situation.
- Using screens as the primary way to calm or distract your child.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Recognizing cyberbullying as repeated harmful behavior via texts, social media, or gaming platforms
- Teaching children about digital citizenship, including kindness, privacy, and thinking before posting
- Establishing a Family Technology Agreement outlining rules, consequences, and open communication
- Monitoring and setting limits on screen time and device use as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics
- Collaborating with school counselors or mental health professionals when bullying affects the child's well-being
- Encouraging children to report uncomfortable online experiences to trusted adults immediately
Related questions
Parents can teach digital citizenship by discussing online kindness, privacy, the permanence of digital content, and encouraging children to think before posting and to report uncomfortable situations.
A Family Technology Agreement is a signed document outlining rules, expectations, and consequences for device use, designed to promote responsible and safe online behavior.
Parents should seek professional help if cyberbullying causes significant emotional distress, depression, school refusal, or if the child expresses self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
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From around the web
Cyberbullying: What Parents Can Do
Guidance on recognizing and responding to cyberbullying, including prevention strategies and communication tips.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Preventing Bullying
Research and strategies for bullying prevention, including cyberbullying.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Talking to Kids About Cyberbullying
Advice on how to discuss cyberbullying with children and support their emotional health.
Child Mind Institute
Family Media Use Plan
Tools and tips for creating a family media use plan to promote healthy screen habits.
American Academy of Pediatrics