Prevention of cyberbullying in schools: Students’ perspective

Cyberbullying is becoming a more frequent and serious problem among students, thus indicating the importance of its prevention. The school context is recognised as a significant and suitable area for preventive action; therefore, research on students’ perspectives on cyberbullying can substantially contribute to understanding the role of schools in its prevention. The focus of this research is to explore the students’ perceptions of the presence and effectiveness of preventive measures in schools. The research included 856 students from the 5th to the 8th grade of elementary schools in Belgrade. Using descriptive statistics, it was established that only half of the students recognise the preventive efforts of schools, and that only a third of them are informed about the activities of the team for the protection of students against violence. The factor analysis identified three dimensions of students’ perceptions of preventive measures effectiveness: educational, controlling and supportive. The findings indicated that students attribute the greatest preventive potential to the appropriate support to students and positive school climate, whereas they perceive the restrictions as less effective. The conclusion emphasises that it is essential to transform the existing preventive practice, which is not sufficiently oriented toward the holistic model and integration of socio-emotional learning, digital empowerment, and authentic involvement of all participants in creating a stimulative and safe school environment.