Youth and Social Media
For Parents of Children Being Cyberbullied
Cyberbullying Tips for Parents
Nearly half of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 report ever experiencing cyberbullying behaviors according to a 2022 Pew Research Center survey. The most commonly reported behaviors in order of most reported to least are called offensive name, false rumors spread about them online, received explicit images they didn’t ask for, constantly asked where they are/what they’re doing/who they’re with by someone other than a parent, physically threatened or had explicit images of them shared without their consent.
The following resources provide guidance to parents and teens on how to help teens stay safe online and address issues that may arise.
Cyberbullying Research Center
The Cyberbullying Research Center uses research on the cause and effect of cyberbullying to provide resources to parents and students.
Safe Social Network
Safe Social Network provides resources to parents to help teens have a safe online presence.
Internet Matters
Need help with setting up parental controls and helping your child stay safe online? Internet Matters, started by parents in partnership with tech companies, offers guidance.
Non-consensual sharing of images
Before giving children access to smartphones or social media, ensure that youth understand the risks with sexting and what to do if someone asks them to share content:
- NetSmartz: Sexting
- HealthyChildren.org: Sexting: How to Talk With Kids About the Risks
- Cyberbullying Research Center: Sexting: Advice for Teens, Review these tips with teens
- Planned Parenthood: All About Sexting, Review with young adults
For help with getting images removed
Learn About Our Team Members
Let us know if you’d like to share additional links or request specific information to be shared, or if you are a clinician who is seeking additional training or support, please send us an email at youthsocialmedia@pinerest.org.
