🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #143
My teenager is a victim of online bullying, with nasty messages and her photos being spread. How do I help her?
Listen to and believe your child first, because cyberbullying hurts even when it leaves no mark on the body. Do not blame her or immediately take her phone, because that makes her secretive just when she needs you most. Keep evidence by taking screenshots of the messages and photos before they are deleted. Help her block and report the bullies through the platform, and inform the school if the culprits are classmates. Assure her that her self-worth is not decided by the words of spiteful people. If there are threats or her private photos are spread, make a police report; if she is in danger, call the police on 999 immediately, and Talian Kasih on 15999 for support. Rebuild her confidence with warm family time and ongoing support. See also digital & family.