In the master's thesis, I researched peer bullying among children in schools, which represents a challenge nowadays. Characteristics of peer bullying are similar to any other type of bullying; therefore it is necessary for school employees’ to be familiar with various types of violence, to be perceptive of violence and aware of consequences. We live in increasingly digitalized world in which a lot of our interactions take place online. The unlimited online world also provides a large space for the spread of online violence. Since children and adolescents tend to socialize on social medias, peer bullying also occurs there. I analyse the occurrences and characteristics of various forms of violence, which I compare with online bullying and I define their consequences. Researches (Polak idr., 2011; Jeriček Klanšček idr., 2023; Inštitut za kriminologijo pri Pravni fakulteti, 2010, v Pušnik, 2012; Hinduja in Patchin 2009, v Pušnik, 2012) shows that all forms of violence must be addressed in order to ensure a safe school environment, which we are obligated to provide for all students.
In the thesis, I researched which factors influence violence, how adults can detect peer violence and prevent or reduce the likelihood of its occurrence. Only when we are able to define violence can we recognize it and act against it. The main goal of the research was identifying the most effective ways of preventing bullying among children and adolescents in schools nowadays. This can only be achieved by being able to define violence and its factors, working on prevention and taking actions when necessary. Before allowing children access to the internet, we must equip them with online safety skills, warn them about the dangers and monitor their activities.
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