Parenting Strategies for the Early Prevention of Bullying Among Generation Alpha

Abstract

The development of digital technology and changes in social interaction patterns in Generation Alpha present new challenges in parenting, including the increased potential for bullying behavior, both in direct interactions and through digital spaces. In this context, families have a strategic role in developing children's social, emotional, moral, and character skills as a foundation for early bullying prevention. This study aims to analyze parenting strategies in preventing bullying behavior in Generation Alpha and identify parenting styles that can strengthen children's resilience to aggressive behavior and bullying. This study used a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with parents, observations of children's interaction patterns in the family and social environment, and analysis of relevant documentation. Data were analyzed thematically through the stages of data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results show that early bullying prevention can be strengthened through five main parenting strategies: open communication between parents and children, role modeling in developing prosocial behavior, strengthening character education and empathy, monitoring children's social interactions and digital activities, and implementing consistent, non-violent positive discipline. The research findings confirm that responsive, communicative, and character-oriented parenting not only serves to prevent children from becoming bullies but also improves children's ability to recognize, reject, and report bullying behavior. This research contributes to the development of a family-based perspective on bullying prevention by positioning parents as key actors in building a safe, inclusive, and well-supportive developmental environment for Generation Alpha.