1 in 4 parents report cyberbullying, 41% kids turn to AI for emotional support.

A Norton study found that 1 in 4 parents (24%) reported their children were victims of cyberbullying, with another 41% saying their child turned to AI for emotional support. The report emphasizes the need for parents to equip their kids with tools to stay safe in the evolving digital landscape. Cyberbullying perpetrators were often classmates or peers.

A recent Norton study, released on July 22, 2025, has shed light on the growing digital safety challenges faced by parents of school-aged children. The study, titled "2025 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report: Connected Kids," reveals that 24% of parents have reported their children as victims of cyberbullying, while 41% say their children turn to AI for emotional support [1].

The report highlights that children are increasingly going digital at a younger age, with many starting on tablets by age 2 and getting their first phone by age 12. This early exposure to digital platforms has led to parents navigating uncharted territory in terms of keeping their children safe online. The study emphasizes that over half of cyberbullying victims (54%) have classmates or peers as perpetrators, with social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok leading the way [1].

Despite the prevalence of cyberbullying, there is a glimmer of hope. Almost half (48%) of parents say their children have asked for help with online interactions, indicating a willingness to seek assistance. However, a staggering 56% of children have admitted to finding ways to circumvent their parents' screen time limits, raising concerns about their online behavior [1].

The report also addresses the growing role of AI in children's digital lives. Notably, 41% of parents say their children use AI for companionship and emotional support, with 46% of parents reporting their child uses ChatGPT. While 40% of parents acknowledge AI's benefits for learning and creativity, there are significant concerns about its unintended effects, particularly among mothers [1].

In response to these findings, Norton offers five tips to help parents create a safer digital environment for their children:

1. Start the Conversation Early: Engage children in age-appropriate conversations about online behavior, safety, and kindness from the moment they start using devices.
2. Use Parental Control Tools Thoughtfully: Utilize built-in device settings and parental control tools to set screen time limits and block inappropriate content.
3. Teach Kids to Recognize Red Flags: Help children identify signs of cyberbullying, scams, AI manipulation, or predatory behavior.
4. Model Healthy Tech Use: Set a positive example by managing your own screen use and engaging responsibly online.
5. Stay Involved, Stay Curious: Regularly check in with children about their online activities and explore new trends together [1].

As children grow up in a digital world, it is essential for parents to stay proactive, informed, and involved. The Norton study underscores the urgent need for digital literacy and cyber resilience skills to ensure children can navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/childhood-2-0-ai-friends-and-cyberbullying-on-the-digital-playground-302510450.html