Reading and texts: Cyberbullying prevention from child and youth literature

Abstract

Books offer materials suitable for reflection and analysis, allowing readers to exercise decision-making and problem-solving. The power of literary texts to make readers experience emotions, to present different situations and behaviors to them and even to get them to face their fears and concerns, makes reading a privileged instrument for bullying and cyberbullying prevention. In this chapter, we analyze how literary texts may contribute to moral education of readers and how books can help teachers, parents, and practitioners dealing with bullying and cyberbullying experiences. First, we review how bullying is portrayed in child and youth literature. Second, we describe reading strategies to prevent or intervene in bullying situations with literary texts. Finally, we examine research analyzing the effectiveness of reading practices in bullying intervention. We conclude that reading books dealing with bullying and ongoing discussions on this issue are very suitable to alleviating intimidating behaviors in children. If teachers, educators, and parents are proactive and educate children by carrying out activities of education in values, the problem can diminish before it starts or can be under control at primary and secondary education.