Cyberbullying in Ireland has increased
as technology becomes more available
and accessible, with 6.3% in 2007, 20%
of 2,790 pupils in 2008 and 22% in
2011. In 2014, among 500 pupils,
cyberbullying rates of 6% of 9-10 years,
12.9% among 13-16 years and 9%
among 15-16 year olds. This increase in
cyberbullying may be due to the
growth and the risks technology can
pose to mental health, as 25% of
victims do not seek support at all. This
study will examine current gaps in the
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literature, and why do only 25% of
victims do not seek help? Researchers
suggest fear of dual punishment by a
parent when their phone/internet is
removed and current methods of
support online do not involve any
positive interaction for the victim.
Research has highlighted the
anonymity and free access to the target
given to the bully places the victim in a
scenario where they feel helpless.
Therefore this research will use the
Department of Education and Skills;
Action Plan on Bullying, created by
leading researchers and academics in
Ireland and the UK. The plan provides a
practical, informative, practical
resource for schools in Ireland. The
Action Plan on Bullying will be
examined during qualitative interviews
with parents, teachers and principals,
identifying its use, practitioner
knowledge and attitudes, and how it is
utilised. This research will identify how
coping strategies highlighted by
Professor O’Moore are used by victims,
if they are indeed present. Over several
phases this research will use a mixed
methods design, utilising quantitative
and qualitative measures. A sample of
1000 secondary school pupils for
quantitative analysis and a further 10
individual cyberbullying cases for
qualitative case study analysis using
interviews. This research will present
the current literature, methodology
and any quantitative findings of
cyberbullying in second level education
in Ireland.