Helping Your Teen Deal with Bullying

Bullying isn’t always easy to spot—especially in the teenage years. It can be disguised as “banter,” silent exclusion, or subtle social manipulation. For many teens, this can lead to deep emotional distress, self-blame, and withdrawal, whether it happens in person or online.

In this session, we’ll explore the hidden forms of bullying and how they affect teens’ confidence, friendships, and mental health. We’ll also look at what parents can do to help—whether their child is opening up or keeping things to themselves.

Discussion Points:

– The different forms of bullying in adolescence—beyond the obvious

– How “banter” and exclusion can become emotional bullying

– The impact of bullying on teen self-esteem and mental health

– Why self-blame is so common, and how to address it gently

– Supporting your teen in setting boundaries and rebuilding confidence

– When and how to involve the school—while keeping your teen on side

– Tools to help parents stay calm and constructive through difficult conversations

Takeaways for Parents:

✅ Confidence in recognising when ‘banter’ crosses the line

✅ Language to talk about bullying without creating defensiveness

✅ Practical steps for supporting your teen emotionally and socially

✅ Guidance on working with schools effectively and empathetically

---