How Parents Can Help Teens Prevent and Respond to Bullying

Bullying and Your Teen: What Parents Can Do

Bullying is a serious issue that affects many children and teens—at school, online, and in their communities. As a parent, you play a powerful role in helping your child understand, prevent, and respond to bullying. Here are some practical ways to support your teen.

1. Talk About Bullying Before It Happens

Bullying prevention starts with open conversations. Talk regularly with your teen about:

  • What bullying looks like—verbal, physical, emotional, and digital.

  • Safe ways to respond—standing up for themselves assertively, not physically.

  • When to get help—encouraging them to talk with you, a teacher, or another trusted adult.

Don’t assume one conversation is enough. Check in often so your teen knows they can always come to you.

2. Model and Build Resilience

Teens learn coping strategies by watching the adults in their lives. Show your child how you manage stress—whether through exercise, hobbies, or taking quiet time. Invite them to join you in healthy activities. When they see you taking care of yourself, they learn how to build resilience too.

3. Partner with Your Teen’s School

Encourage your teen to share what’s happening at school and remind them they have a right to feel safe. If problems come up, contact teachers or administrators early. Many schools also provide support around cyberbullying, so include that in your conversations.

4. Make Your Family’s Values Clear

Let your teen know your family stands against bullying. Remind them not only that you will always support them if they are targeted, but also that they should treat others with respect. Children who feel supported at home are better prepared to handle challenges outside of it.

5. Teach Respect for Differences

Help your teen learn to respect and appreciate differences in others—such as abilities, appearance, culture, or personal interests. Encourage curiosity, kindness, and inclusive language. Emphasizing empathy and understanding helps reduce bullying behaviors and builds stronger friendships.

6. Encourage Empathy

Empathy is the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Practice with your teen by noticing emotions in everyday life—whether in movies, TV, or conversations. Discuss how people might feel in certain situations and model empathy in your own interactions.

7. Strengthen Social Skills

Teens who have strong social skills are less likely to be targets of bullying and more likely to form healthy friendships. Focus on:

  • Cooperation – working together and sharing.

  • Active listening & eye contact – showing others they matter.

  • Patience – practicing delayed gratification.

  • Boundaries – respecting personal space and saying no when uncomfortable.

8. Work with Other Parents and Teachers

Bullying prevention works best when families and schools work together. Connect with other parents, attend school events, and encourage open dialogue about creating safe spaces for students.

Resources for Parents and Teens

If bullying is happening or you’re worried about your child’s safety, use these resources:

Final Thought

Bullying is never just “part of growing up.” With your support, your teen can learn how to recognize it, respond safely, and help create a kinder, more respectful community.

Rebecca White