Managing Cyberbullying at School

Evanne Evans, 1 Apr 2025

Cyberbullying: A Growing Crisis

In 2025, cyberbullying emerged as a significant concern for primary school-aged children across Western nations. With increased access to digital devices and online platforms, children as young as six are encountering online harassment, leading to profound emotional and psychological impacts.

The nature of cyberbullying varies, encompassing verbal abuse, social exclusion, and the sharing of harmful content. Platforms like Snapchat and group chats have become common arenas for such behavior, often leading to feelings of isolation and distress among victims. The Escalating Threat

Recent studies by the World Health Organization show that one in six school-aged children experiences cyberbullying, a figure that continues to grow as more children from a younger age are exposed to and interacting with digital media. In Australia, reports highlight that over 50% of young individuals have faced cyberbullying, with many incidents going unreported.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

The consequences of cyberbullying extend beyond the digital realm. Victims often experience anxiety, depression, and a decline in academic performance. Tragically, there have been instances where sustained online harassment has led to self-harm and suicide, as in the case of 12-year-old Adiel Boyd from Australia, who in 2024 took her own life after enduring relentless cyberbullying. Sadly, this is one of many recent disturbing circumstances that highlight the severity of the issue.

Expert Recommendations for Parents and Educators

Experts and supporters are fighting back with strategies to support young people and their carers.

Open Communication

Encourage children to discuss their online experiences, creating a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows them to share their concerns. More conversations can lead to more support and solutions.

Monitor Online Activity

Parents can't be shy about taking more control over their child's use of digital media. Regularly check your child's activity and explore which software applications can help parents monitor online behavior while respecting their privacy.

Educate About Digital Etiquette

These days, from a very young age, children need to be taught about digital citizenship, including respectful online boundaries and behavior, as well as the importance of empathy.

Engage with Schools

Parents, teachers, and educational centres should collaborate to ensure robust anti-bullying policies and support systems are in place for students. Many institutions now offer programs and workshops to address cyberbullying, along with counselors and support staff able to guide students through difficult times.

Beyond individual efforts, community and governmental actions play a crucial role in addressing these issues. Organizations like Dolly's Dream have developed resources to support families dealing with cyberbullying. Their Beacon app offers tailored advice and tools to navigate online challenges. In some countries, such as Ireland, mobile phone bans are being implemented to both reduce classroom distractions and potential avenues for cyberbullying.