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Electronic bullying among middle school students
Robin M Kowalski1, Susan P Limber
1Department of Psychology, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA. rkowals@clemson.edu
Summary
Electronic bullying is a significant problem among middle school students, with many experiencing or perpetrating it via digital means. Understanding cyberbullying prevalence is crucial for intervention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Education
Background:
- Children and adolescents increasingly use electronic communication technologies.
- These technologies provide new avenues for peer aggression, commonly termed electronic bullying or cyberbullying.
- The study focuses on the prevalence of this phenomenon among middle school students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the prevalence of electronic bullying among middle school students.
- To understand the different roles students play as victims, perpetrators, or bully/victims.
- To identify common methods used in electronic bullying.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 3,767 middle school students (grades 6-8).
- The questionnaire included the Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire and custom questions on electronic bullying experiences.
- Participants reported on their experiences as both victims and perpetrators of electronic bullying.
Main Results:
- 11% of students reported being victims of electronic bullying in the past few months.
- 7% identified as bully/victims, and 4% admitted to electronically bullying others.
- Instant messaging, chat rooms, and e-mail were the most common methods; nearly half of victims did not know their bully's identity.
Conclusions:
- Electronic bullying is a substantial issue requiring ongoing attention.
- The pervasive use of digital technologies by youth necessitates continued research and intervention.
- Findings have implications for youth, parents, and educators in addressing cyberbullying.
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