Coping While Connected

Abstract

The current study explored online preventive coping (privacy settings) and reactive coping (reporting tools) among youth and how the use of these online safety tools related to the frequency of cybervictimization. Surveys were administered to youth in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary school. Results indicated that the prevalence of cybervictimization decreased with grade and did not vary by gender. Gender differences emerged in the use of coping mechanisms, with females more likely to use privacy settings than males. In addition, older females were more likely to use privacy settings compared with younger females. Compared with older females, younger females were more likely to use informal reporting tools (i.e., contacting the person responsible for posting inappropriate content). Only limiting the visibility of posts and comments was uniquely associated with a lower frequency of cybervictimization. Younger adolescents were less likely to engage in the only behaviour that was associated with less frequent cybervictimization. These findings suggest that younger youth may lack the skills and knowledge necessary to cope effectively with cybervictimization.