womanthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2025 OPINION 17 In an age where nearly every teenager has access to the Internet, parents face the challenge of protecting their children from cyberbullying. This form of bullying can manifest in various ways, from hurtful messages to harassment on social media. It is crucial for parents to figure out how to support their children in navigating these digital waters. The Impact of Parenting Understanding the role parents play in the lives of children affected by cyberbullying, whether as victims or perpetrators, is vital in preventing harassment. Two key factors influence this dynamic: parental warmth and monitoring. Parental warmth refers to the affection and support that parents provide. Research consistently shows that when parents are warm and nurturing, negative behaviours in children decrease which subsequently lowers their involvement in cyberbullying. Moreover, children who feel supported are more likely to share their online experiences, helping them avoid risky situations. Conversely, parental monitoring encompasses the oversight parents have over their children’s online and offline behaviours. However, monitoring is not synonymous with strict control. In many cases, overly restrictive measures such as limiting access to specific websites prove inadequate. Instead, parents who engage in open discussions about online behaviour, clarifying what is acceptable and what is not, equip their children to handle online conflicts more effectively. The Digital Landscape Today’s youth spend an average of 7.5 hours per day engaged with technology. This reality underscores the need for parents to be aware of not only what their children are doing online but also the platforms they are using. Many parents express concern that they lack knowledge about social media, making it challenging to monitor their children’s activities. Studies indicate that parents often underestimate the time their children spend online and the nature of their interactions. For instance, while some may be familiar with email, they might be unaware of social networking sites where most cyberbullying occurs. Set Clear Guidelines: Establish what constitutes acceptable behaviour online. Remind your children to treat others kindly even in digital spaces. Be Involved: Participate in technology use with your children. Engage in conversations about social media and digital interactions to foster connection. Cultivate Empathy: Help your children understand that their words and actions on digital platforms can significantly impact others. Discuss the feelings associated with being bullied and the importance of confronting such behaviour. Stay Informed: Keep up with technological advancements and social media trends. This knowledge will enable you to communicate more effectively with your children and understand their experiences better. Supporting Children in the Online World In the digital age, parents play a crucial role in safeguarding their children from cyberbullying. By fostering warm relationships, maintaining open lines of communication and actively engaging with their children online, parents can create a supportive environment. Establishing a safe space for children to express their thoughts and seek guidance helps them navigate challenges and remain productive in their lives. Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst, Fifi Kiwan, highlights how parental warmth, communication and awareness can help protect children in today’s online world, offering guidance to support them through the challenges of cyberbullying with understanding and confidence. Keeping Your Child Safe Cyberbullying and Parenting: Strategies for Success To combat cyberbullying effectively, parents should focus on strengthening their relationships with their children. Here are some strategies to consider: Open Up: Encourage your children to share their online experiences. When children feel safe discussing their digital lives with you, they are more likely to seek your help during difficult times.
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