What to Do if Your Child Engages in Online Gaming Bullying
Psychology Today
by Tracy Evian Waasdorp Ph.D.February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Video games are a popular pastime for children, offering benefits like problem-solving skills and creativity. However, they can also expose kids to conflicts, including bullying behavior in online gaming environments. While gaming doesn’t inherently cause aggression, parents may face challenges if their child engages in harmful online actions, such as exclusionary tactics or using hostile language. Detecting these behaviors can be tricky since online gaming often happens unsupervised and involves fast-paced interactions that blur the line between playful banter and bullying.
If you suspect your child is engaging in online bullying, it’s important to approach the situation calmly and avoid labeling them as a “bully.” Instead, focus on specific actions and the importance of empathy and respectful communication. Understanding your child’s motivations—such as peer pressure or imitating influencers—is key to addressing the issue constructively. Open dialogue can help identify underlying causes and guide them toward healthier online habits.
To foster growth and accountability, parents should prioritize teaching digital citizenship and empathy rather than relying solely on punishment. This involves explaining the emotional impact of online behavior and helping children understand how their actions affect others. For younger kids, setting clear expectations like disabling chat features or supervising gameplay can encourage positive habits. Older children may benefit from open conversations about peer dynamics and using monitoring tools to reinforce accountability while maintaining trust.
Ultimately, the goal is to help children learn from their mistakes and develop into thoughtful digital citizens. By focusing on growth rather than punishment, parents can create a supportive environment where kids feel safe coming forward with issues or mistakes. This approach not only addresses online bullying but also promotes mental health by fostering empathy, emotional regulation, and social awareness—key components of
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/13/2026