Mobile Bullying in South Africa - Exploring its Nature, Influencing Factors and Implications

摘要

Due to an increase in mobile web adoption as well as active mobile users in South Africa, mobile phone bullying is escalating and has become a major concern in schools and communities. Many users of these technologies are often unaware of the severity of this problem and its consequences or simply ignore them. In addition, limited scientific research exists which examines the nature of mobile bullying in South Africa. The lack of awareness of mobile bullying, the negative effect thereof on the injured party, the potential legal liabilities and the lack of research in this field has prompted this study. This study examines the nature of mobile bullying and the key factors that influence mobile bullying. It aims to create awareness of this abuse and highlights the legal implications that could result from engaging in it. A conceptual model is developed that organisations can use to measure the influence of these factors on organisations and groups. Some propositions to test this model empirically are suggested.