Child On Child Abuse
What is online child-on-child abuse?
Online child-on-child abuse is often associated with cyberbullying. However, that is only a part of it. Ofsted explains that it can also include:
- physical and sexual abuse
- sexual harassment and violence
- emotional harm
- teenage relationships abuse
- grooming for sexual or criminal exploitation
Most child-on-child abuse online happens outside of school hours when children are at home and on devices. So, there is also a key part for parents and carers to play in ensuring children and young people are not engaging in these behaviours. Additionally, both teachers and parents need to work together to help young people understand what to do if they find themselves in an abusive situation online.
Information for parents and carers
Parents and carers play a key role in teaching their child about appropriate behaviours online. Have open conversations about what they do online and how they interact with others. Help them understand what healthy behaviours look like and where they can go if they need support.
What to do if your child is the perpetrator
If you discover your child has targeted another child in some way, it might be hard to deal with. Below are some tips to help for you to help them learn from their mistakes and find support.
What are the signs?
Behaviours associated with a child who may be abusive towards another child include:
- aggression
- impulsivity
- short-temperedness
- lack of empathy
- easily frustrated
- less likely to take responsibility for their actions
- a need to control or assert dominance