Cyberbullying: The Challenge to Define

Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, Volume 15, Number 6, 2012

6 Pages Posted: 30 Nov 2013

See all articles by Colette Langos

Colette Langos

University of Adelaide - School of Law

Date Written: 2012

Abstract

Cyberbullying is a reality of the digital age. To address this phenomenon, it becomes imperative to understand exactly what cyberbullying is. Thus, establishing a workable and theoretically sound definition is essential. This article contributes to the existing literature in relation to the definition of cyberbullying. The specific elements of repetition, power imbalance, intention, and aggression, regarded as essential criteria of traditional face-to-face bullying, are considered in the cyber context. It is posited that the core bullying elements retain their importance and applicability in relation to cyberbullying. The element of repetition is in need of redefining, given the public nature of material in the online environment. In this article, a clear distinction between direct and indirect cyberbullying is made and a model definition of cyberbullying is offered. Overall, the analysis provided lends insight into how the essential bullying elements have evolved and should apply in our parallel cyber universe.

Keywords: Cyberbullying, Bullying

Suggested Citation

Langos, Colette, Cyberbullying: The Challenge to Define (2012). Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, Volume 15, Number 6, 2012 , Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2361267

Colette Langos (Contact Author)

University of Adelaide - School of Law ( email )

Ligertwood Building
Adelaide 5005, South Australia SA 5005
Australia

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