RQ1: (a).Is cyber bullying a more widespread problem among youngsters than traditional bullying (given the high penetration rates of ICT among youngsters, and the possible “disinhibiting” aspects of these technologies (e.g. the anonymity))? (b). Which forms of “deviant” internet are mobile phone behaviors are most prevalent among youngsters (These forms of cyber bullying that require few skills?). And how are these practices perceived (as bullying or as joking)?
RQ2: What is the profile of online bullies? Do they posses specific socio-demographic and psychological characteristics? Is their internet use different from that of other youngsters (More internet use? Less control from parents? More dependent on the internet? More advanced internet skills?)? How do they differ from other youngsters regarding their experience with traditional bullying as victim, perpetrator or bystander and their experience with cyber bullying as victim or bystander?
RQ 3: What is the profile of online victims? What socio-demographic and psychological characteristics do they have in common? Is their internet use different from that of other youngsters (more internet use? More dependent on the internet? More risk behavior on the internet?) How do they differ from other youngsters regarding their experience with traditional bullying as victim, perpetrator or bystander and their experience with cyber bullying as perpetrator or bystander?
Research method
• Stratified random sample: a large scale survey was conducted among 636 primary school children and 1416 pupils from secondary education in Flanders (Belgium). With regard to the respondents of primary schools, ten classes of the 5 th grade and ten classes of the 6th grade were randomly selected. For secondary schools, the classes were selected on the basis of a stratified random sample.
• Questionnaire: Mixed types of question are used to assess this research. Likert-scale, yes no question, multiple choices, and open ended question.