At a glance, the guide focuses on the following areas:
- There is no “typical” bully or target
- Children’s online experiences are often positive, but concerns may go unshared
- Cyberbullying rarely happens on its own
- Restricting technology is not always the solution
- Bullying is not a normal part of growing up
- What parents can do
- Supporting children through understanding and connection
Bullying and cyberbullying continue to affect children and young people in a range of ways, both online and offline. To support parents and caregivers in understanding these behaviours and responding effectively, the DCU Anti-Bullying Centre developed Understanding Bullying and Cyberbullying: A Guide on How to Support Your Child, an evidence-based resource grounded in Irish and international research.
The guide aims to challenge common myths about bullying and provide clear, practical guidance on how adults can support children who may be experiencing, witnessing, or engaging in bullying behaviour.
There is no “typical” bully or target
One of the key messages in the guide is that there is no single profile of a “bully” or a child who is targeted. Research shows that bullying behaviours are strongly shaped by context, including school culture, peer group dynamics and social norms. In some cases, hurtful behaviour can emerge within friendship groups, becoming normalised over time without young people fully recognising the harm caused.
This understanding shifts the focus away from labels and towards recognising and addressing harmful behaviours wherever they occur.
Children’s online experiences are often positive, but concerns may go unshared
The guide highlights that most children and young people report positive experiences online and feel confident navigating digital spaces. For many, the internet is an important social environment where they connect with friends, watch content and express themselves. However, evidence shows that when something upsetting happens online, many children do not tell a parent or caregiver. This can make cyberbullying difficult to detect and reinforces the importance of creating open, supportive conversations about children’s online lives.
Cyberbullying rarely happens on its own
Another important finding is that cyberbullying usually does not occur in isolation. In many cases, online bullying is connected to offline experiences, such as bullying in school or within peer groups. This overlap means that understanding a child’s everyday experiences, both online and offline, is essential when trying to identify and address bullying behaviour.
Restricting technology is not always the solution
While limiting access to devices may feel like a protective response, the guide cautions that restrictive approaches can sometimes increase isolation and discourage children from sharing their experiences. Digital technology plays a central role in young people’s social lives, and removing access entirely may also remove important sources of support. Instead, the guide emphasises the value of ongoing conversations that help children develop critical thinking skills, emotional resilience and confidence in managing challenges online.
Bullying is not a normal part of growing up
The guide strongly challenges the idea that bullying should be accepted as part of childhood. Experiencing bullying can have long-lasting effects on a child’s wellbeing, including their self-esteem, mental health and engagement with school. Importantly, children who witness bullying can also be negatively affected, experiencing increased anxiety or distress.
Recognising the seriousness of bullying, whether a child is directly involved or not, is key to effective prevention and response.
What parents can do
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to listen carefully if a child raises concerns, to avoid minimising their experiences, and to place responsibility for harmful behaviour on those engaging in it. The guide also advises involving children in decisions about next steps, as fear of adult reactions can sometimes prevent young people from speaking openly.
Clear guidance is also provided for situations where a child may be involved in bullying others, with a focus on addressing behaviour rather than applying labels, supporting accountability, and helping children change harmful actions.
Supporting children through understanding and connection
Overall, the guide reinforces that addressing bullying and cyberbullying is a shared responsibility between families, schools and wider support services. By fostering open communication, understanding the realities of children’s online and offline lives, and responding in informed and supportive ways, parents and caregivers can play a vital role in protecting children’s wellbeing.
Endnote:
The referenced guide is the output of several research projects conducted at the Anti-Bullying Centre, Dublin City University. The full guide is available here:
Understanding Bullying and Cyberbullying: A Guide on How to Support Your Child
