Policies Against Cyberbullying: A Comprehensive Framework of Policy Responses and the Assessment of a Hungarian Municipal AntiCyberbullying Program

Absztrakt (kivonat)

The rapid spread of ICT devices, internet and social networks induced a number of new social phenomena since the end of the 20th century. One of these is the emergence and diffusion of cyberbullying. Although it has many similarities with face-to-face bullying, a number of characteristics are setting them apart. For instance, cyberbullying seems to have more severe consequences on victims due to the fact that it is almost impossible for them to escape and that cyberbullying can diffuse much faster. According to different estimates, 15-35% of young people have been cyberbullied in their lives. The severity of the problem implies that specific policy responses need to be taken to prevent cyberbullying and to reduce the harm it causes. By my study, I intend to contribute to the knowledge about possible policy responses in two ways. First, extending the ‘routine activities’ framework, I present variables associated with cyberbullying and with the harm it causes. I also present policy responses discussed in literature, relating them to the variables they address. I note that no comprehensive framework addressing both variables and policy responses to cyberbullying had existed before to my knowledge. Second, I evaluate a Hungarian municipal anti-cyberbullying program (HOP12) on the basis of relevant literature, planning documents and studies, meta-analysis and the results of my primary data collection as well. The relative lack of data does not allow for confirmation of the program’s efficiency. Nevertheless, the program is likely to have had some positive impacts. On the basis of results of the evaluation, I also suggest some changes that potentially could ameliorate the program.