Youth with mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions face higher rates of negative online experiences than their peers, and they're far less likely to report what happens to them, according to research published in JAACAP Open by the Child Mind Institute.
The study found that young people dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism encounter more cyberbullying, harassment, and other harmful interactions online. But here's what worries experts most: these teens and children stay silent about it.
Several barriers keep struggling youth from reporting negative experiences. Fear of consequences ranks high on the list. Many young people worry that telling adults will result in losing internet access entirely, rather than getting actual help. Shame and self-blame also play a role. Youth often internalize the experience, believing they somehow caused the harassment or deserved the treatment.
For parents, this creates a challenging situation. Your child's mental health condition doesn't make them less deserving of online safety, but it does put them at greater risk. The research suggests that young people with existing emotional or behavioral challenges may struggle more with conflict resolution online, making them vulnerable targets. They may also have fewer social skills or confidence to stand up for themselves.
What parents can do: Build trust before trouble starts. Create a family culture where reporting negative experiences brings support, not punishment. Ask your child directly about their online interactions without judgment. If they've experienced harassment or cyberbullying, resist the urge to ban devices immediately. Instead, problem-solve together about how to handle similar situations going forward.
This research highlights why checking in about digital life matters as much as monitoring screen time. For youth with mental health conditions especially, online spaces carry real risks. But awareness and open communication give parents a fighting chance at keeping their children safe while preserving their access to the connection and community digital spaces provide.