Agressão entre pares no espaço virtual: Definições, impactos e desafios do cyberbullying

Abstract

The present paper aims to present a literature review on empirical and theoretical studies about cyberbullying process. Although there are few studies about this theme and there is almost no empirical evidence found in Latin America, cyberbullying has been defined as a specific phenomenon, unique and without violence antecedents. Cyberbullying is directly related to bullying but it can happen any time and does not necessarily take place in a natural environment. Researches have shown that cyberbullying victims are more vulnerable to commit suicide than other youth, as well as to develop social and emotional problems that can lead to school dropout and poor academic achievement. Besides all, studies also evidenced that youth involved in this phenomenon are at risk for substance use and abuse as well as to present depression and anxiety symptoms when compared to those youth that do not experienced this kind of violence. The update discussion about cyberbullying is important especially focusing on prevention and intervention programs involving family (parents), school and public police makers.