Helping Parents Guide Children Through the Challenges Of Bullying
By Jeffrey Cates, Digital Skills Agent, Guilford County Center
In collaboration with Dr. Monique Pearce-Brady, Family Life & Human Development Specialist
Understanding Bullying Today
Bullying remains one of the most pressing challenges children and families face. Defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance and is repeated over time, bullying can occur in classrooms, on playgrounds, and increasingly in digital spaces (CDC, 2021). Victims often experience emotional distress, social withdrawal, academic difficulties, and long-term mental health risks (American Psychological Association [APA], 2023).
No single factor makes a child more likely to be bullied or to bully others, but research shows that youth with disabilities, socially isolated youth, or those facing stigma may be at higher risk (CDC, 2021).
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Parents and guardians are often the first to notice changes in behavior that signal a child may be experiencing bullying. Warning signs include:- Sudden withdrawal after screen time or school
- Deleted or hidden social media accounts
- Reluctance to attend school or activities
- Emotional shifts, including irritability, sadness, or anxiety
Guiding Children in the Digital Age
With nearly 60% of U.S. teens reporting experiences of cyberbullying (Pew Research Center, 2022), it is critical that parents understand both the risks and opportunities of online life. Families can help children develop resilience by focusing on two strategies:1. Building Positive Digital Identities
According to the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI, 2023), youth thrive when encouraged to create a constructive and authentic digital presence. Parents can:- Support children in posting about gratitude, kindness, or achievements.
- Encourage the use of social media portfolios to showcase art, STEM projects, or sports.
- Teach proper tagging and attribution, reinforcing respect for others’ work.
- Periodically audit old posts with children, removing content that no longer reflects who they are.
2. Using Practical Digital Tools
Technology can support families when paired with open communication. Tools such as Bark monitor texts, social media, and email for signs of bullying, self-harm, or predatory behavior and send parents alerts without fully invading children’s privacy (SafeWise, 2024). Combined with Google Family Link or Apple Screen Time, parents can set healthy boundaries while preserving trust.The Importance of Dialogue
Experts emphasize that monitoring tools are most effective when paired with ongoing conversations. Parents should use digital alerts or school reports as conversation starters rather than as punitive measures. A simple opening such as, “I saw something concerning in a notification—can you help me understand what happened?” fosters trust and problem-solving.Taking Action
If a child is experiencing bullying, parents can:- Listen first without judgment.
- Document the incident (screenshots, written records).
- Report and block harmful accounts on digital platforms.
- Engage schools or youth leaders for coordinated support.
- Reassure children that they are not alone and that adults will help.
Resources for Families
- Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI)
- Bark Parental Monitoring
- Common Sense Media
- CDC Bullying Prevention Resources
- Pew Research Center – Parenting and Screens
Conclusion
Preventing and addressing bullying requires a whole-family approach: understanding warning signs, fostering positive digital identities, using technology wisely, and most importantly, maintaining open lines of communication. With proactive guidance, parents and guardians can help children grow in confidence and resilience, both online and offline.References
American Psychological Association. (2023). Bullying and youth mental health.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Preventing bullying.
Family Online Safety Institute. (2023). Teaching the power of positivity online.
Pew Research Center. (2022). Teens, social media and technology 2022.
SafeWise. (2024). Bark parental control app review.
