One of the biggest problems of our time, “cyber bullying” was discussed at the Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Faculty of Communication. Kocaeli University Faculty of Communication, Department of Journalism Chair Prof. Dr. Emel Baştürk Akça was guest speaker at the conference organized by the EMU Department of New Media and Journalism. Prof. Dr. Akça evaluated a person or group scaring, threatening or abusing others via sending content on communication technologies. Revealing that cyberbullying is directly proportional with internet usage Prof. Dr. Akça shared her study which aimed highlight the prevalence and consequences of cyber bullying in Turkey.
Survey carried out with 1400 middle school students
Prof. Dr. Akça provided information about the survey she carried out with 1400 middle school students from seven provinces. Regarding the survey she carried out with the contributions of TÜBİTAK Prof. Dr. Akça stated: “Over 60% of the respondents indicated that they have made a complaint about someone on social media on at least one previous occasion. The top reason for complaint was verbal abuse. This percentage shows the risk faced by children and young people whilst also revealing that they are skilled in protecting themselves. What we need to do is further develop their skills and lead to a safer internet environment.”
Lead by Prof. Dr. Emel Akça the movement against cyber bullying encourages deliberative internet usage instead of restrictions, where internet usage is seen as a right in an environment where young people are protected from possible dangers. At the end of the event, EMU Faculty of Communication, Department of New Media and Journalism Chair Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nurten Kara presented Prof. Dr. Akça a board with unique Cypriot lefkara.
