Electronic Violence among Croatian Youth: Prevalence, Regional Patterns and Prevention through Family– School Partnership

In the context of rapid technological advancement, electronic violence – particularly cyberbullying – has become an increasingly pressing issue among children and adolescents. This review examines the prevalence and impact of cyberbullying by synthesizing findings from scientific literature and empirical studies, with a focus on the emotional and social consequences for victims. The analysis underscores the pivotal role of families and schools as protective environments, highlighting the responsibilities of teachers and professional staff in supporting vulnerable student populations. Regional disparities in prevention strategies are evident, with countries such as Croatia facing significant challenges due to limited institutional support and insufficient digital education. Socioeconomic factors further shape exposure to cyberbullying, emphasizing the need for targeted, context-sensitive interventions. The paper advocates policy measures, including the establishment of regional CERT teams, increased school funding, and curricular reforms to enhance digital literacy and promote safe online behaviour. These recommendations seek to foster inclusive school cultures and strengthen systemic responses to electronic violence, thereby contributing to regional development and youth well-being.