How to Spot the Signs Your Child Is Being Bullied Online

How to Spot the Signs Your Child Is Being Bullied Online (Before It Gets Worse)

Let’s be real—kids don’t always tell us when something’s wrong. Especially when it comes to what’s happening behind the screen. As a parent, it’s easy to miss the early signs of online bullying… until the damage is done.

But here’s the good news: there are subtle clues. And when you know what to look for, you can step in early, support your child, and stop the spiral.

 

🚩 1. Sudden Withdrawal from Devices

Ironically, kids being bullied online often avoid the very thing causing the pain. If your tech-loving teen suddenly doesn’t want their phone, tablet, or game time—take note.

What to look for:

Turning off devices quickly when you enter the room

Refusing to log in to certain apps or platforms

Deleting social media accounts without a clear reason

😞 2. Mood Swings After Going Online

Was your child cheerful one minute, then sulking the next—right after being online?

What to look for:

Irritability, anxiety, or sadness that seems to follow phone or laptop use

Crying, snapping, or shutting down after checking messages

Overreacting to seemingly small things

 

Online bullying isn't "just digital"—it hits the body too. Headaches, nausea, or “I don’t feel well” excuses could be masking emotional stress.

What to look for:

Frequent sick days or complaints of stomach aches

Sleep problems or nightmares

Change in appetite or energy

 

🤐 4. Secrecy or Lockdown Mode

If your once-open child now guards their phone like a state secret, it could be a sign something’s up.

What to look for:

Quickly switching tabs or screens

Getting defensive when asked about online friends

Refusing to let you near their device

 

🧹 5. A Drop in Confidence

Bullying chips away at self-worth. If your child seems more insecure, self-critical, or fearful lately, don’t brush it off.

What to look for:

Negative self-talk: “I’m stupid,” “Nobody likes me,” etc.

Avoiding friends, school, or social events

Over-editing selfies or obsessing over online appearance

 

💬 What You Can Do:

Create a safe space to talk—no judgement, just support

Ask open-ended questions like, “Have you seen or heard anything online that made you uncomfortable?”

Reassure them it’s not their fault, and they’re not in trouble

Report abuse, block the bully, and document evidence

📚 Bonus Tip:

Looking for tools to help your child feel empowered and safe online?
Check out our Screen-Free Tools & Parent Power Picks [link to collection] — designed to support healthy habits, open conversations, and real-world confidence.

Download our Free Red Flag Checklist to keep on the fridge, in your planner, or share with a friend.

❤️ Final Word:

You know your child better than anyone. If your gut says something’s wrong, don’t ignore it. Online bullying is real—but so is your power to help them through it.

Your role isn’t to fix everything overnight—it’s to keep showing up, keep listening, and remind your child that their voice, safety, and wellbeing matter. And if you ever need a reminder of that? Just know you’ve got a whole community of parents (and authors like me) in your corner.

Stay connected: Follow us for more screen-free resources, parenting tools, and honest conversations about raising resilient kids in the digital world.

#OnlineBullying #DigitalParenting #RaisingResilientKids #ParentPower