Children face serious cyber threats that parents must monitor

What the research found

Systematic reviews show cyberbullying is common and linked to harm. One 2015 review put prevalence between 6.5% and 35.4%. Victims and bullies had more emotional problems, depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts. A 2018 review also looked at links between cyberbullying and self-harm or suicidal behaviour in young people. These studies show links, not proof of cause.

On monitoring, a 2015 online survey of a nationally representative sample of parents and their 12 to 17 year olds set out to test whether parental monitoring and internet restriction can help reduce online harassment. A 2018 interview study with 29 adolescents, 13 paediatricians and 15 parents found people believed parents should talk with their children and monitor and supervise online activity. Low parental confidence was named as a barrier.

Prevention programs can help. A 2022 meta-analysis of 50 studies and 45,371 participants found school programs reduced cyberbullying perpetration and victimisation. UNICEF guidance suggests ground rules, privacy settings and open conversations. It says to encourage kids to tell a trusted adult if something online upsets them.

What it doesn’t mean

• The research covers mostly cyberbullying. It says little about other online threats such as scams or predators, so this check cannot size those risks.
• Research on whether monitoring itself reduces harm is limited, so this check cannot say how much it helps. Guidance stresses talking openly with kids, not just watching them.
• If your child seems distressed, withdrawn or mentions self-harm, talk to a GP or child health nurse promptly.