چکیده (انگلیسی):

Introduction

The Intervention Mapping Protocol (IMP) was applied to the design of a serious game against cyberbullying among adolescents (12–14y).

Method

The IMP comprises 6 predefined steps. A systematic review assessed the cyberbullying problem and associated health risks (Step 1). Surveys and focus groups collected information on behavior and its determinants from adolescents (surveys, n = 1979 and n = 453; focus groups, n = 69), parents (surveys, n = 48 and n = 323) and educators (survey, n = 451) (Step 1, 2). Meta-analyses analyzed effective methods for cyberbullying programs and serious games (Step 3). A survey (n = 530) and focus groups (n = 69 adolescents, n = 8 adolescents) assessed preferences and program material appreciation (Step 4). Planned activities for step 5 (implementation) and step 6 (effectiveness) are reported.

Results

Targeting positive bystander behavior (defending, reporting and comforting) was chosen as a viable approach to reduce cyberbullying. Bystander behavior differed by context and was predicted most by positive outcome expectations for the victims. Adolescents valued educator and parental support. Predictors for educator behavior and parental support are described. Serious game design was based on effective change methods and features, and took stakeholder and user preferences into account.

Conclusion

Findings may aid professionals in evidence- and theory-based design of cyberbullying interventions and serious games.