Real-World Dangers in an Online Reality: A Qualitative Study Examining Online Relationships and Cyber Abuse (Report‪)‬

Children and youths use electronic technology such as the Internet more than any other medium through which to communicate and socialize. To understand the phenomenon of cyber abuse from children's and youths' perspectives, the authors examined anonymous posts made by children and youths to a free, 24-hour, national, bilingual phone and Web counseling, referral, and information service. The children and youths were between 11 and 24 years of age (average = 14 years). This analysis of anonymous posts by children and youths provides information about their involvement in online interactions and their experiences with cyber abuse. Findings revealed the regularity and importance of the Internet and communication technology for socialization; the forms, extent, and impact of cyber abuse; and children and youths' fear of disclosing cyber abuse to adults, particularly parents. Implications for parents, social workers, and other practitioners, researchers, and policymakers are discussed. KEY WORDS: children; cyber abuse; online interactions; online socialization; youths