Risk Factors of Cybervictimization Associated with the Use of Technologies in Elementary Education

The link between technology use and cybervictimization in elementary education is less explored than in secondary education. Increased technology use since COVID-19 and high rates of cybervictimization among elementary students highlight the need to identify early risk factors. This study surveyed 1,169 families of fifth and sixth graders using a self-administered questionnaire (α = .84). Binary logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors. Bivariate analysis revealed that mobile phone use, number of technological devices, frequency of internet connection, and the purpose of internet use were significant individual risk factors (p < .05). The multivariate model identified using a mobile phone with internet access, frequent internet connection, and families being unaware of the purpose of the child’s internet use as joint predictors of cybervictimization. These findings underscore the importance of parental mediation in elementary students to mitigate the risk of cybervictimization.