Support for young people viewing violent and distressing online content

Distressing material showing the fatal shooting at Utah Valley University, which occurred earlier this week, are circulating online. Young people who encounter content like this online may be struggling to come to terms with what they have read and seen. It is normal for them to have questions or feel unsettled, and parental and or adult support can make a big difference.

Online spaces should be safe for everyone. If a child sees violent or distressing material, it is important to check in and talk to them about the content they have seen. eSafety Australia also recommends that children use devices in open areas of the home, rather than in their bedroom, so you can be attuned to how they are coping and what they are engaging with online.

For parents and carers 

• How to get started with parental controls 
• General online safety advice for parents

For kids and young people 

• I saw something online I didn't like (for primary-school aged children) 
• Dealing with disturbing content (for young people) 

For educators 

eSafety’s Toolkit for Schools supports schools to create safer online environments and be prepared with processes in place when incidents do happen.   

The Respond modules provide guidance on reporting requirements, minimising harm and supporting wellbeing. By being informed and prepared, we can all contribute to reducing the risk of children and young people being exposed to this content, and support those who are.