Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a growing concern for kids and teens online. It includes hurtful comments, threats, spreading rumors, or other harmful behaviors that occur through digital platforms. Hate speech, targeting someone’s race, gender, religion, or other personal traits, is a particularly harmful form of cyberbullying.

These behaviors can leave children feeling isolated, anxious, and unsure of how to respond, underscoring the importance of proactive conversations and support.

Guidance

Recognize and Address Bullying

  • Ask open-ended questions to understand their online interactions and relationships.
  • Stay alert for signs of cyberbullying, like withdrawal or avoiding devices.
  • Reassure them that bullying is never their fault and that they have your support.

Offer Support

  • Keep conversations calm and judgment-free to create a safe space for sharing.
  • Develop a plan together for handling bullying, like blocking the bully or reporting the behavior.
  • Check in regularly about their online experiences to show you’re there to help.

Encourage Positive Behavior

  • Talk about the importance of being an upstander—someone who helps others and reports bullying.
  • Discuss how small actions, like liking or sharing harmful content, can perpetuate bullying.
  • Encourage kindness and respect in all online interactions.

Other Considerations

  • Cyberbullying can occur on social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps. Stay informed about which platforms they use most.
  • Teach them to think critically before liking or sharing content that might hurt others, as even passive actions can escalate harm.
  • Discuss digital footprints and remind them that anything shared online can be saved or spread, even if it’s deleted.
  • Some children may hesitate to report bullying out of fear of retaliation or losing access to their devices. Emphasize that you’re their advocate and will work with them to address the issue.
  • Talk about the role of bystanders and encourage them to support others by reporting harmful content or reaching out to someone being targeted.

Conversation Starters

  • Ask them what they think cyberbullying looks like and if they have ever seen or experienced it online.
  • Discuss what they can do if they encounter harmful behavior, like reporting it or seeking help from a trusted adult.
  • Reassure them that they won’t get in trouble for coming to you with concerns about bullying.
  • Talk about how they might support a friend or peer who’s being bullied online, even in small ways.
  • Ask how they decide what’s okay to share or interact with online and discuss strategies to avoid escalating harmful behavior.

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