Understanding Cyberbullying: Signs Parents Shouldn't Ignore

Cyberbullying has become one of the most common and damaging online risks for children and teens. Unlike traditional bullying, it doesn't stop when the school day ends. It follows kids home through their screens, sometimes 24/7.

For parents, recognizing the signs early and responding with empathy and action can make all the difference.

What Cyberbullying Looks Like Online

Cyberbullying takes many forms, and it isn't always obvious. It can include mean or threatening messages sent via text or social media, posting embarrassing photos or videos without consent, creating fake profiles to harass or impersonate someone, excluding a child from group chats or online games, and spreading rumors or hurtful comments publicly.

Some kids may even participate in harmful behavior without realizing the impact. For example, sharing a cruel meme or reposting gossip. What may seem "just a joke" online can cause deep emotional harm.

Emotional and Behavioral Red Flags

Every child reacts differently, but here are some signs that might suggest your child is being bullied online: sudden changes in mood after being online, avoiding social media or devices they once enjoyed, becoming secretive about phone or computer use, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches, and decline in school performance or interest in activities.

If you notice these changes, resist jumping to conclusions. Instead, start with gentle questions and an open ear.

How to Support a Child Who's Being Targeted

Your response matters more than you might think. The goal is to make your child feel safe, believed, and supported.

Stay calm. Avoid overreacting or immediately removing devices, which can make kids afraid to share in the future.

Listen first. Let them describe what happened and how it made them feel.

Document the evidence. Take screenshots or save messages in case you need to report the behavior.

Report and block. Use the platform's reporting tools to flag the abusive content and block the aggressor.

Reach out for help. If bullying involves threats or repeated harassment, contact the school or local authorities.

Remind your child that being targeted isn't their fault and that it takes strength to speak up.

Building Digital Resilience

Prevention starts with open communication. Help your child build confidence and skills to handle online conflict safely.

Set boundaries together: Discuss what respectful online behavior looks like and how to respond if someone crosses a line.

Encourage empathy: Talk about how words and actions online affect real people.

Model kindness: Show how to engage positively online. Your behavior sets the example.

Promote balance: Encourage time away from screens through hobbies, sports, and in-person friendships.

Resources for Parents and Schools

You're not alone in this. Many organizations provide practical tools and guidance for responding to cyberbullying:

StopBullying.gov provides federal resources on recognizing and preventing bullying.

CyberTipline (NCMEC) offers reporting options for online exploitation or threats.

PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center delivers educational materials for schools and parents.

CyberSafely.ai provides tools and insights to help families identify and address online risks early.

Moving Forward Together

Cyberbullying can deeply impact a child's emotional wellbeing, but early recognition and compassionate support can turn pain into resilience.

Stay involved, stay informed, and remind your child that no online behavior should ever make them feel unsafe or unworthy. Together, families, educators, and communities can make the internet a safer space for every child.