Adolescence is a time of discovery, exploration and learning.

However, with the advent of social media and technology, it can also be marked by cyberbullying, a serious problem that can have profound consequences on the mental and emotional health of our young people.

As parents, it is our duty to guide them with gentleness and empathy to help them navigate this complex and sometimes hostile online world.

In this guide, we offer you strategies to combat online harassment and protect the well-being of your teenage girls.

1. Listen without Judgment

Start by creating a space where your teen feels comfortable talking to you. Listening without judgment is essential for them to open up about their online experiences, whether positive or negative. Be open to their stories and concerns.

2. Educate yourself about Technology

Before mentoring your teen, familiarize yourself with the online platforms and social media she uses. This will help you understand potential risks and engage in informed conversations.

3. Discuss the Risks of Online Harassment

Without creating fear, discuss the risks of cyberbullying in a gentle and sincere way. Explain that harassment can take different forms, such as mean comments, intimidating messages, and malicious rumors.

4. Instill Strong Self-Confidence

Help your teen understand that her worth does not depend on the opinions of others online. Build her confidence by highlighting her talents, strengths and accomplishments.

5. Encourage Responsible Use of Social Media

Show your teen how to use social media responsibly. Explain the importance of respecting others online, not sharing personal information, and reporting suspicious behavior.

6. Create Open Communication

Establish an open dialogue about the importance of communication in a harassment situation. Make sure she knows she can talk to you about anything that bothers her online, without fear of punishment.

7. Learn to Recognize the Signs of Harassment

Explain to your teen how to recognize the signs of online bullying, such as sudden withdrawal from social media, mood changes, or negative reactions after using the Internet.

8. Support without Minimizing

If your teenager confides in you that she is being bullied, support her with empathy. Avoid minimizing their online experience by saying "it's only on the Internet." Online harassment can have a profound emotional impact.

9. Encourage Healthy Relationships Online and Offline

Help your teen cultivate healthy relationships online by encouraging positive friendships and avoiding toxic behaviors. Also push for positive offline interactions to boost their self-esteem.

10. Use Online Resources

There are online resources, organizations, and support groups dedicated to bullying prevention. Explore them together to show her that she is not alone in this struggle.

The online world can be a wonderful place, but it's crucial to guide our teenage girls to enjoy it safely.

With love, patience and open communication, you can help your teen cope with online harassment and become a responsible and confident user of technology. Your support can make a significant difference in their lives online and offline.

Here are some useful resources for young women who are victims of cyber harassment:

1. Net Listen - An online platform that offers advice and support to combat online harassment. Visit their website: https://www.netecoute.fr/

2. E-Enfance - An association which aims to protect children and adolescents online. They offer practical advice and resources to prevent online harassment: https://www.e-enfant.org/

3. Phare Enfants-Parents - An association which offers listening and support for children and adolescents who are victims of harassment. Visit their website: https://www.phare.org/

4. InfoViolences - A site that offers information and advice on violence, including cyberbullying. Find out here: https://www.infoviolences.ch/

5. Emotional Weightlifting - A podcast dedicated to youth mental health. They address topics such as harassment and emotional well-being: https://halterophilie-emotionnelle.com/

6. Stop Cybersexism - A campaign against cybersexism and online harassment. They offer advice and actions to act against these behaviors: https://stopcybersexisme.com/

7. Espaces de Parole - A Facebook group where young women can share their experiences of harassment and receive peer support: https://www.facebook.com/Espaces-de-parole-101963841924785

8. Stop Online Harassment - A Twitter account dedicated to preventing online harassment. They share useful tips and resources: https://twitter.com/stopharcelinet

9. Let's protect our Teenagers - A site which aims to inform teenagers about online risks and help them protect themselves: https://protegeonsnoseleves.education.gouv.fr/

10. Infofemmes - An association which offers telephone and online support for women victims of violence, including online harassment: https://www.infofemmes.com/