УДК 159.9

Аlexander A. Somkin

National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University (Saransk, Russia),

е-mail: alexsomkin@mail.ru

 

Cyberbullying and Cybervictimization in Modern Society: Specifics of Counteracting Antisocial Behaviors

 

Abstract

Introduction. Along with a number of undoubtedly positive opportunities, the Internet has brought into our lives negative aspects associated with the so-called phenomenon of cyber-bullying – bullying among adolescents through Internet communications. As modern studies and surveys show (Andronnikova O. O., Biktagirova G. O., Biktagirova G. F., et al., Obukhova Y. V., Gurieva V. O., Cook C. R., et al., Fekkes M., et al., etc.) almost a quarter of schoolchildren are regularly exposed to cyberbullying. This situation requires the development of effective measures aimed at counteracting cyberbullying (cyberbullying etiquette and ethics) or, if it happens, psychological support for victims of bullying. The purpose of the article is to examine the main behavioral motives of cyberbullying participants, its socio-psychological consequences among modern adolescents, and to identify measures to counter cyberbullying.

Materials and Methods. The manuscript of the article was prepared on the basis of L. S. Vygotsky’s cultural-historical theory, as well as methods of comparative analysis and generalization of the content of scientific studies, surveys and publications reflecting the main ideas on the problems of cyberbullying and cyber victimization as destructive behavioral patterns and prevention and avoidance of their negative consequences.

Results. The article analyzes and expands the list of the main motives of bullying on the Internet in adolescents of both sexes, taking into account the specifics of Internet communication itself. The importance of the “biological” factor as a genetic predisposition to this or that model of behavior is noted. It is argued that the social consequences of cyberbullying are unambiguously negative for all participants in this process. Bully and his supporters gain experience of solving problems by force. The victim suffers psychological trauma, whose negative effects can affect the rest of his or her life, up to and including the development of suicidal tendencies. Outside observers find themselves in the position of the silent majority, carrying this experience into adulthood and becoming tolerant of these types of bullying situations.

Discussion and Conclusion. Three strategic directions of counteraction to cyberbullying and cyber victimization have been identified: technological (creation of “smart” computer technologies capable of recognizing and preventing conflict situations); educational (teaching Internet users the basics of safety rules, Internet literacy and correct and respectful behavior towards other users) and, most importantly, social (development of specialized recommendations and programs for schools to create a safe social environment both within the walls of the image of a teenager and in the school).

Keywords: cyberbullying, cyber victimization, teenagers, school, society, Internet communication, safety, victim, psychological trauma.

For citation: Somkin А. A. Cyberbullying and Cybervictimization in Modern Society:Specifics of Counteracting Antisocial Behaviors. Gumanitarian: aktual’nye problemy gumanitarnoi nauki i obrazovaniia = Russian Journal of the Humanities. 2024; 24(3): 259–268. (In Russ.)

 

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