Teenagers Interaction on the internet: Student and Teachers Perceptions on Cyberbullying in Emiliano Tria Tirona Memorial National High School Integrated Senior High School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Cyberbullying happens when someone uses technology to send mean, threatening or embarrassing messages to or about another person. In might be in text, email, messages or an online post. Yilmaz H. (2015), Cyberbullying can be anonymous, which can sometimes make it even worse; whereas it also has a wider audience and can spread quickly. Most often, targets of cyberbullying often feel like they cannot get away from bullying. It affects millions of people through the use of different social media accounts. The definition of bullying is slowly expanding this form of cyberbullying which falls beneath typical teachers and parents radar and can continue for years without intervention. Hence, this study focused on identifying the perceptions of students and teachers about cyberbullying.

METHODS

For the purpose of this study, the researchers used a Descriptive research design to know the perceptions on Cyberbullying of the students and teachers in Emiliano Tria Tirona Memorial National High School. Using cluster sampling, 98 students of Grade 11 and Grade 12 from different strands and 17 senior high school teachers were included as respondents of the study. A survey questionnaire was distributed among the selected respondents and the data collected were subjected to quantitative analysis.

RESULTS

As revealed on the results, various forms of cyberbullying such as sending mean emails, text or instant messages, sending neutral messages to someone to the point of harassment, posting hurtful things about someone on social media, spreading rumors gossip about someone online, pretending to be another person by creating a fake online profile are highly recognized by the researchers. However, attacking character on online games, constantly and on purpose are not recognized as forms of cyberbullying. Meanwhile, more than 75% of the respondents agreed that Cyberbullying affects the behavior of a person while the remaining 25% think otherwise.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the results of the survey, most of the respondents are highly aware of the different forms of cyberbullying based on their social media exposure and personal experiences. This study then recommends for the school to raise awareness programs among students of the effects and forms of cyberbullying. It is further recommended that each student takes it easy in using social media and become more responsible netizens.