X Close Search

Study Shows 32% Of Parents Consider Cyberbullying As The Main Concern For Their Children’s Wellbeing

The study also highlighted parental concerns regarding the amount of time children are spending online, with 55% of parents saying that they thought their child spent too much time on their smartphone. If you are affected by anything touched on within this article, follow the links to our various support services or click on the blue logo icon at the bottom right of the screen to start using Cybersmile Assistant, our smart AI support assistant.

According to a new study carried out in South Africa, cyberbullying is now the top concern for parents worried about their children’s wellbeing. The ‘Responsible Digital Parenting’ survey, undertaken by cyber security company Kaspersky in partnership with Toluna, found that 32% of parents saw cyberbullying as their number one concern and also that over 30% of children have experienced cyberbullying in some capacity – whether a target, perpetrator or bystander.

Data from the report also indicates that some parents appear to be unfamiliar with the online environments that their children are spending time and also the nature of threats or risks that their child may be exposed to in these environments – this is highlighted by the survey findings, which indicate 28% of parents have not discussed internet ethics with their children, while 25% have not discussed online safety.

“It is essential that parents learn more about the potential risks and ethical aspects of online interactions. This is an important part of facilitating productive open dialogue with young people about what they are doing online and how to deal with issues effectively should they arise.”

Dan Raisbeck, Co-founder, The Cybersmile Foundation

Researchers also commented on how parents should consider taking the time to engage more with their children’s online lives, so that they can create opportunities for meaningful conversation regarding online risks and how to manage their online/offline life balance more productively. The report highlighted parental concerns regarding the amount of time children are spending online, with 55% of parents saying that they thought their child spent too much time on their smartphone.

If you are affected by anything touched on within this article, we can help you. Visit our Help Center or click on the blue logo icon at the bottom right of the screen to open Cybersmile Assistant, our smart AI support assistant.

To learn more about Cybersmile and our work, please explore the following recommendations:

What are your thoughts on these findings? Let us know by contacting us or tweet us @CybersmileHQ.