Adolescents’ Online Peer Support on Cyberbullying: A Thematic Analysis of Online Support Group Fora

• In Event: Online Harassment and Bullying

Abstract

Peer support has been proven to be an often-used and effective strategy for adolescents to counter cyberbullying victimization. However, little is known about the actual content of peer support, partly due to limitations inherent to survey, interview or focus group research. The current study therefore examined online peer support sought and provided with regard to cyberbullying, by performing thematic analysis of cyberbullying message threads in two online support group fora for adolescents. Applying Tardy’s (1985) social support framework, including social support categorisations by House (1981), we found that peer support sought and provided involved informational support on coping strategies, and appraisal support on (cyber)bullying as a phenomenon, on the actors involved and on the victim’s specific (cyber)bullying situation. In addition, online fora members provided victims with various subtypes of emotional support. Further research is needed on the effectiveness of different types of peer support, particularly regarding advised coping strategies.

Authors

• Sara Bastiaensens, University of Antwerp, Department of Communication Studies

• Katrien Van Cleemput, U of Antwerp

• Heidi Vandebosch, U of Antwerp - Department of Communication Studies

• Karolien Poels, U of Antwerp - Department of Communication Studies

• Ann DeSmet, Ghent U

• Ilse De Bourdeaudhuij, Ghent U