Bullying and Cyberbullying: Protecting and Supporting Your Teen
May 02, 2025
Bullying and cyberbullying have evolved significantly in today’s digital age, presenting unique challenges for parents and teenagers. While physical and verbal bullying remain prevalent, online platforms have created new arenas for harassment. Understanding the dynamics of bullying and cyberbullying and how to address them is crucial for helping teens navigate these complex social landscapes.
What Is Bullying and Cyberbullying?
1. Bullying Defined
According to StopBullying.gov, bullying involves unwanted aggressive behavior, a power imbalance, and repetition.
It can take the form of:
• Verbal bullying (name-calling, threats).
• Physical bullying (hitting, pushing).
• Relational bullying (exclusion, spreading rumors).
2. Cyberbullying Defined
Cyberbullying occurs online or through digital devices.
Examples include:
• Harassment via social media, texts, or gaming platforms.
• Sharing embarrassing photos or spreading rumors online.
• Impersonating someone to damage their reputation.
Why Do Teens Bully?
1. Emotional Regulation Challenges
Some teens bully because they struggle to regulate emotions like anger, jealousy, or insecurity.
2. Power and Control
Bullying often stems from a need to assert dominance over others, particularly if the bully feels powerless elsewhere.
3. Social Pressures
Peer pressure and group dynamics can encourage bullying as teens seek approval or avoid being targeted themselves.
4. Online Anonymity
Cyberbullying is exacerbated by the anonymity of the internet, which reduces empathy and increases impulsivity.
How Bullying and Cyberbullying Impact Teens
Victims of bullying and cyberbullying may experience:
• Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
• Academic struggles or school avoidance.
• Physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches.
Cyberbullying, in particular, can feel inescapable due to the constant presence of digital devices. Dr. Susan Swearer, a leading expert on bullying, notes, “The psychological consequences of bullying can persist into adulthood, impacting mental health and relationships long-term.”
Positive Parenting Strategies for Bullying and Cyberbullying
1. Open Lines of Communication
• Regularly ask your teen about their day and their interactions with peers.
• Use open-ended questions like, “Have you noticed any conflicts at school or online lately?”
2. Teach Empathy and Kindness
• Help your teen understand the impact of their actions on others.
• Model empathetic behavior in your own interactions.
3. Monitor Online Activity Without Overstepping
• Establish clear guidelines for digital device use, but avoid invasive monitoring.
• Encourage your teen to report inappropriate content or interactions.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends co-creating a “Family Media Plan” to set boundaries around online behavior.
4. Equip Your Teen to Handle Bullying
• Teach assertive responses like: “I don’t like that. Please stop.”
• Walking away confidently.
• Encourage them to report bullying to a trusted adult.
5. Address Bullying Behavior if Your Teen Is the Aggressor
• Avoid shaming; instead, explore the underlying causes of their behavior.
• Use restorative practices, like having your teen apologize and make amends to those they’ve hurt.
6. Involve the School When Necessary
• Many schools have anti-bullying policies. Work with teachers, counselors, and administrators to create a safe environment for your child.
7. Foster Self-Confidence
• Involvement in activities like sports, clubs, or volunteer work can boost your teen’s self-esteem and reduce their vulnerability to bullying.
When to Seek Professional Help
If bullying or cyberbullying leads to persistent anxiety, depression, or self-harm, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Dr. Catherine Bradshaw of Johns Hopkins University emphasizes, “Parents should not hesitate to involve a counselor or psychologist if their teen is struggling with the emotional fallout of bullying.”
Key Takeaways for Parents
• Bullying and cyberbullying are serious issues that require proactive intervention.
• Build trust with your teen and teach them skills to navigate these challenges effectively.
• Foster a culture of kindness and accountability within your family.
Resources for Parents
• StopBullying.gov: Comprehensive resources for parents and teens.
• The Bully, the Bullied, and the Bystander by Barbara Coloroso: A must-read for understanding bullying dynamics.
• Family Media Plan by the AAP: Visit here to create your own plan.
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