Framing Cyberbullying: A Content Analysis of U.S. Newspaper Coverage of Cyberbullying for the Last Five Years

• In Event: Online Harassment and Victimization

Abstract

This study examined how the U.S. newspapers framed cyberbullying from 2007 to 2012. By content analyzing 214 newspaper articles, we analyzed forms, causes, consequences, and preventions of cyberbullying and characteristics of cyberbullies and victims. Findings indicated that most articles do focus on school-aged children, often highlighting dramatic outcomes, such as suicide. However, they do not adequately cover the other important, more typical outcomes, such as loss of self-esteem and depression. Given the media’s role in educating adults about the challenges young people face, more detailed explanations of laws and resources could also be of help.

Authors

• Yeojin Kim, U of Alabama

• Carol B. Mills, U of Alabama