Online chat-support for bullying prevention and follow-up: an analysis of the characteristics of chat-users and their experiences

The purpose of this study was to examine data registered at an online bullying support chat-service over a three-year period to determine the characteristics of users and their experiences. The service was contacted 12,687 times during this period, leading to 7,641 chat-dialogues with counsellors, 57% of which (n = 4,388) were directly related to bullying. Findings indicate that 76% of chat-users were female and 89% were victims of bullying (ages 12-17). The extent of bullying experienced was extensive, typically occurring on a daily basis at school. More than 30% had not sought help prior to contacting the service. Verbal, relational, and physical bullying were all common, although verbal bullying was by far the most prevalent, occurring in 65% of cases. Consistent with survey research on bullying, boys were significantly more likely than girls to have been the victims of physical bullying, while the opposite was true for relational bullying.

Automated summary

This study examined data from an online bullying support chat-service over a three-year period to determine user characteristics and experiences. The findings showed that the majority of users were female, aged 12-17, and victims of bullying. Bullying was reported to occur on a daily basis at school, and over 30% of users had not sought help before contacting the service. Verbal bullying was the most common type, followed by relational and physical bullying. Boys were more likely to experience physical bullying, while girls were more likely to experience relational bullying.