The Future of Adolescent Female Cyber-bullying: Electronic Media's Effect on Aggressive Communication
Date
2007-12
Authors
Ponsford, Jena
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Abstract
Cyber bullying is a communication phenomenon in which a bully utilizes electronic media in order to harass peers. Females favor CMC forms of bullying over more direct face-to-face interactions because it takes advantage of social norms for displaying female aggression. The author of this study collected examples of female cyber bullying from popular teen social networking sites. This study discusses the reasons behind female bullying and the five messages most commonly expressed in online bullying. After analyzing the themes found within the examples, five specific messages emerged: (1) exposure of confidential information or gossiping, (2) attacks on appearances, (3) attacks on sexuality, (4) statements about disloyalty and untrustworthiness, and (5) less frequently, threats or desire for physical violence.
Description
Keywords
cyber-bullying, communication, relational aggression, bullying, gender, internet, Honors College
Citation
Ponsford, J. (2007). The future of adolescent female cyber-bullying: Electronic media's effect on aggressive communication (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University-San Marcos, San Marcos, Texas.