When It Hurts: Parenting Through the Pain of Bullying—On Either Side

Let’s say the quiet part out loud: Bullying happens.


It happens in schools and churches, on the bus and online, between individuals and in groups….

And here’s a truth that’s even harder to face:

Sometimes, your child may be the one getting bullied.
And sometimes, your child may be the one doing the bullying.



Either way, you hurt.

Let’s Talk About the Pain That’s Too Often Discounted


If your child is being bullied, you feel helpless. You question everything:


“Should I have caught this sooner?”
“Am I overreacting—or not doing enough?”
“Why isn’t the school doing more?”


The sting is real. The worry keeps you up. And the anger can consume you. Watching your child suffer—emotionally, socially, even physically—feels like a failure, even when it’s not.


But if your child is the one causing pain, a different kind of heartbreak settles in. You wonder:


“Where did this come from?”
“What does this say about us?”
“How do I stop this and still love them through it?”


Shame, defensiveness, and confusion pile on. No parent wants their child to be the villain—but pretending it’s not happening won’t make it stop.


Both Sides Need the Same Thing: Guidance.

At Capstone, we’ve sat with parents on both sides of this struggle. And here’s what we know:

  • Most bullying behavior grows out of pain, fear, or an unmet need.
  • Most bullied children suffer in silence far too long.
  • And most parents—whether angry, scared, or frozen—are doing the best they can with what they know.

But you don’t have to navigate this alone.


You Are Not a Bad Parent. Your Child Is Not Broken.

What you are is human. And what you need is support that goes deeper than blame, judgment, or oversimplified advice.


Whether your child needs help rebuilding confidence or re-learning empathy…


Whether your home feels like a battlefield or a place of silent suffering…


We can help you create a path forward.


Empowerment Starts With Awareness—and Action

Capstone Counseling offers tools and guidance for:


Spotting the signs of bullying

(on either side)


• Teaching emotional regulation, boundaries, and empathy

• Rebuilding damaged relationships at home or at school

• Strengthening your parenting voice without shame or fear

• Navigating school systems and digital drama with confidence



The Healing Starts With You

Parenting through bullying isn’t about having the perfect response.
It’s about having
a safe space to process what’s happening, get tools that work, and show up for your child with clarity and courage.


Let’s face this—together.

Capstone Counseling and Coaching


Stronger families. Healthier children. Real support for real life.

Request an Appointment Now
Schedule Appointment
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