The Impact of COVID-19 on Cyber-victimization Experiences Among Middle School Students

Baltierra, Jessica; Aronson, Sarah; Welsh, Madisyn

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/113579 Copy

Description

Title

The Impact of COVID-19 on Cyber-victimization Experiences Among Middle School Students

Author(s)

• Baltierra, Jessica
• Aronson, Sarah
• Welsh, Madisyn

Issue Date

2021

Keyword(s)

• Cyber-Victimization
• Middle School
• COVID-19 Pandemic
• Social Media

Abstract

Adolescents’ frequent use of social media and other forms of electronic communication has skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and adolescents are using these platforms for schoolwork and socialization. Researchers have yet to explore a possible consequence of this increased usage: an increase in cyber-victimization among adolescents. To date, most research has examined adolescent cyber-victimization in international spaces during the pandemic, but not as much research has been conducted in the United States. Additionally, it is nearly impossible to find research that focuses on cyber-victimization rates in the United States before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is what this research aims to address. Participants were two cohorts of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students from an urban middle school. Both cohorts’ self-reported rates of cyber-victimization were examined before (spring and fall 2019, early spring 2020) and during the pandemic (spring of 2021). Results indicated a large number of adolescents experienced cyber-victimization, but these rates were similar before the pandemic to current rates of cyber-victimization. This research aims to inform those working and living with adolescents of the risks associated with excessive social media use, including experiencing cyber-victimization. These results can be used to support students who have experienced cyber-victimization before and during the pandemic, and to help practitioners strategize ways to inform and enhance future prevention programs. It is crucial to understand the consequences of this digital world during a global pandemic, and future researchers should consider the associations between cyber-victimization and adolescent mental health concerns.

Publisher

University of Illinois School of Social Work

Type of Resource

text

Language

en

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/113579

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2021 Jessica Baltierra, Sarah Aronson, and Madisyn Welsh

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