The role of internet and computer communication tools on quality of relationships between preadolescents. A pilot study

The development and diffusion of Information and Communication Technologies has resulted in a profound change in the way in which we learn, we relate to others and build their identity. Internet and social media are tools and contexts to improve knowledge and skills but also put themselves at risk to get involved in violent and aggressive interactions relationships as in the case of cyber bullying. The Cyberbullying refers to aggressive behavior, intentional deployed by one or more individuals, using electronic means, repetitively and continuously against a person who can not easily oppose (Smith et al., 2008). The study aims to assess the prevalence of bullying and cyberbullying and to deepen the effect of the Internet and the use of technological communication tools on the quality of relationships among adolescents. The sample is a group of 85 students aged between 10 and 13 years. The results confirm both the spread of bullying and cyber bullying that relations between these two phenomena. Moreover, it appears that only in particular conditions, technological means of communication and internet increase the risk of involvement in aggressive interactions.