1. Filtering online content

With the development of technological trends, the popularity of social networks that have a large number of users is also developing. Advanced filters use selection technology that enables recognition of offensive content on the Internet. Such filters can automatically block potentially dangerous content/text/photo or video footage, or mark it as potentially harmful, and thus contribute to quick intervention in the removal of that content.

2. Developing “augmented” and “virtual” reality

By integrating “augmented” and “virtual” reality into educational programs, it is possible to provide interactive experiences that help the youngest users understand “What is cyberbullying?”, and what are the consequences. Simulations are being developed, as well as virtual trainings that help in developing empathy, but also in understanding the impact and consequences of this type of violence.

3. Applications adapted to mental health

With the improvement of technological trends, mobile applications have also been developed that can provide support to victims of cyberbullying, in such a way that they contain advice: dealing with trauma, as well as monitoring mental health. However, in this case, the importance of professional support is especially emphasized, which includes talking to a psychologist or psychiatrist in order to provide assistance in preserving mental health.

4. Monitoring behavior on social networks

The implementation of smart systems that monitor the behavior of the youngest users on social networks while respecting privacy rules, enables parents/guardians to be informed about their children’s activities on the Internet, and to intervene quickly in case of need.

The future of cyberbullying prevention among children promises significant technological innovations that, together with education and professional support, would create a safer online environment. By constantly monitoring technological trends and providing expert psychological help, they represent key elements in the fight against and prevention of cyberbullying, as well as shaping a positive digital future for the youngest internet users.

“Objavljivanje ovog teksta je finansirano grantom Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država (Department of State). Mišljenja, nalazi i zaključci koji su ovdje navedeni pripadaju autorima i ne odražavaju nužno mišljenja, nalaze i zaključke Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država.“ “This article was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings and conclusions stated herein are those of the author[s] and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State”.

Why is digital literacy important?
Digital literacy, above all, encompasses a wide range of skills, including the ability to recognize misinformation and understand “What are the online threats?”, and contributes to the development of critical thinking and responsible behavior in the online world. Children who are more digitally literate are familiar with how to avoid “online” threats (for example, the “block” option) on social networks.

Why are digital skills development programs important?
Various institutions and organizations are dedicated to the development of digital skills among children with the aim of providing the necessary knowledge and tools necessary for safety in the “online” environment. A number of educational programs and workshops, as well as courses, exist precisely with the aim of offering interactive learning methods that encourage children to gain an understanding of the importance of a safe online environment.

What are the key components for developing digital skills?

• The importance of recognizing online threats;
• Ethics and promotion of positive “online” behavior;
• Critical thinking about information and misinformation;
• Safe use of digital tools and social networks.

Promoting the prevention of cyberbullying has proven to be an essential step when it comes to children’s digital skills development programs. The analysis of such programs highlights the importance of continuous evaluation, adapting the plan to children, as well as encouraging cooperation between schools/parents and organizations that support digital security. Investing in the development of children’s digital skills is considered crucial in the prevention and fight against cyberbullying. Educational programs and workshops exist with the aim of recognizing threats, but also improving ethical and positive behavior in children, thus reducing the risk of “online” violence.

“Objavljivanje ovog teksta je finansirano grantom Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država (Department of State). Mišljenja, nalazi i zaključci koji su ovdje navedeni pripadaju autorima i ne odražavaju nužno mišljenja, nalaze i zaključke Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država.“ “This article was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings and conclusions stated herein are those of the author[s] and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State”.

In today’s modern age and the age of extremely fast technological progress, cyberbullying is a serious problem that affects many people, especially adolescents and children.

For a more successful fight against this problem, it is extremely important to understand the current situation and its significance, as well as to take concrete steps and actions for the purpose of prevention and education. In this blog, we will explore ways to analyze cyberbullying, and how steps are taken to combat this form of internet violence.

Research and analysis

The first step in the fight against cyberbullying is conducting research with the aim of gaining insight into the current situation and knowledge about this issue. This is usually carried out through survey questionnaires that are distributed among different groups (or target age audience) of Internet users, and in our case among children.

The aim of the survey questionnaires is to collect data on the experiences and perceptions of respondents in relation to cyberbullying. Based on the results of the survey questionnaires, data analysis is performed. Using the statistical method, data will be registered, arranged, analyzed, interpreted and interpreted using the SPSS program version 26. The aforementioned statistical program is often used for the purpose of organizing, analyzing and interpreting data in the form of graphic displays, tables, and various statistical tests, thereby facilitating the adoption conclusions and decisions based on empirical evidence. This way of analyzing the results enables gaining a deeper understanding of cyberbullying, as well as identifying key forms of cyber-violence among children.

Education and prevention

After analyzing the results and gaining insight into the current situation and knowledge of the cyberbullying issue among the target age group, i.e. children, it is crucial to take steps aimed at educating and preventing this type of violence on the Internet. This can be achieved as follows:

• Workshops and trainings: Through workshops, children are targeted for literacy in recognizing misinformation they see on social networks;Radionice i obuke: Sa djecom se kroz radionice ciljano radi na opismenjavanju u prepoznavanju dezinformacija koje vide na društvenim mrežama;
• Creation and distribution of educational material: By creating content in the form of leaflets and educational material, writing articles and publishing them in the media, the goal is to acquaint the wider mass, i.e. the global society with new information, or upgrade the known information in connection with methods of prevention and protection against cyberbullying. Educational materials and leaflets will contain carefully composed educational graphics and information with a clear design and precise language, so that the target age group can be quickly and efficiently directed to the key messages. Flyers will be distributed in schools, communities and online;

(3) Cooperation with schools and parents: In order to ensure support and education at different levels, cooperation with schools and parents is indispensable;

(4) The public advocacy campaign aims at the presentation of research results and by putting the problem “under the microscope”, improving current awareness and changing mentality in order to overcome a common and general social problem.

Conclusion

The fight against Internet violence against children requires joint action that includes research, data analysis, education and prevention. By using statistical methods through the SPSS program, it enables a better understanding of the problem and making effective decisions based on empirical evidence.

Education of children, adolescents, parents, as well as the wider community is key to creating a safer online environment and preventing cyber-violence. Activities carried out in schools and within the family contribute to creating awareness and encourage prevention.

Suppression and prevention of internet violence requires a multidisciplinary approach. Through continuous efforts and a systematic approach, it is possible to create a safer online environment for all users, reduce the incidence of cyberbullying, and promote positive and ethical behavior. This process requires the support of the entire community and institutions, with the aim of more effectively facing the challenges brought by the modern digital age.

“Objavljivanje ovog teksta je finansirano grantom Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država (Department of State). Mišljenja, nalazi i zaključci koji su ovdje navedeni pripadaju autorima i ne odražavaju nužno mišljenja, nalaze i zaključke Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država.“ “This article was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings and conclusions stated herein are those of the author[s] and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State”.

the emotional consequences of cyberbullying in children and young people

Cyberbullying is a form of violence and bullying through the use of electronic means of communication through popular social networks, forums, online chats, text messages, and other widely available digital platforms. It is characterized by a repetitive form of violence with the aim of intentionally causing discomfort and emotional vulnerability in the victim. Typical manifestations of cyber attacks are generally known: insults and threats through offensive messages, comments or calls, ignoring and excluding the victim, distribution of false information and impersonation, sharing the victim’s private information with the general public, manipulating photos or creating fake photos of the victim, and all manifestations characterized by continuous attacks that can cause serious emotional consequences.

Cyberbullying leads to serious consequences that can vary in duration and intensity, and include the following:

(1) Anxiety and depression: continuous threats, insults, or general virtual abuse leave a significant impact on the emotional well-being of the victim, who often experiences an increased level of anxiety and depression.

(2) Social isolation can lead to avoidance of social events, gradual or sudden distancing of the individual from interaction with others.

(3) Low self-confidence: a continuous cyber attack affects the victim by damaging self-confidence and feeling less valuable.

(4) Sleep and eating disorders: constant stress in the victim can lead to eating problems in terms of overeating or loss of appetite, as well as sleep difficulties, including nightmares and insomnia.

(5) Problems with learning/concentration: in children and young people who are victims of cyberbullying, there may be a decrease in concentration and will to learn, poor grades and avoiding classes.

The consequences of cyberbullying are complex, and the manifestations often coincide, but it is important to note that each individual reacts differently to this form of violence. When dealing with the emotional consequences of cyberbullying, the cooperation of experts, family and friends is important for the victim. For this reason, prevention and awareness of cyberbullying plays an important role in preserving the mental health of Internet users, especially children and young people.

“Objavljivanje ovog teksta je finansirano grantom Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država (Department of State). Mišljenja, nalazi i zaključci koji su ovdje navedeni pripadaju autorima i ne odražavaju nužno mišljenja, nalaze i zaključke Ministarstva vanjskih poslova Sjedinjenih Američkih Država.“ “This article was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings and conclusions stated herein are those of the author[s] and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State”.