Notes on Digital Divide, Computer Addiction, and Cyber Bullying

Digital Divide

• Definition: Digital divide pertains to the social and economic imbalance of opportunities to access to, use of, or knowledge of information and communication technology (ICTs). It is the gap between sectors in the community who can access, have the skills, and have the desire to use the internet and those who cannot.
• Causes and factors: gaps due to differences in skills, motivations, and preferences of use; categories:
  • Personal: $ext{gender, age, race/ethnicity, personality, intelligence, health}$
  • Positional: $ext{education, occupation, household, nation}$
  • Resources: $ext{economic, social, cultural capital}$
  • Other barriers: lack of knowledge on how to manipulate technology and understanding of its benefits; low income.
• Real-world scenario: mixed digital abilities within families; online enrollment versus offline methods; different communication ways.
• Overcoming (actionable steps):
  • $1$ Lower the cost of internet connection in the house.
  • $2$ A law should be created to make all public places have free internet access set by the government.
  • $3$ LGUs and NGOs should conduct forums about the advantages of technology and how to use it in rural areas.
  • $4$ Parents should be given trainings related to technology by the schools and libraries.

Computer Addiction

• Definition: Inability to control the desire to use technology (computers, smartphones, internet) or extreme use that causes anxiety in the absence of gadgets; daily routines (work, eating, sleep) can be affected, leading to social problems.
• Causes: depression, loneliness, and need for social acceptance (especially among youths).
• Types:
  • $1$ Information Overload
  • $2$ Compulsion
  • $3$ Cybersex addiction
  • $4$ Cyber-relationship
• Symptoms:
  • Emotional: guilt, anxiety, depression, dishonesty, euphoria in front of the computer, defensiveness, distress, escaping work, isolation, schedule disruption
  • Physical: back pain, weight changes, sleep disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome, eye strain
• Prevention:
  • $1$ Set limits on computer use and online activities
  • $2$ Talk with family and friends; engage in social activities
  • $3$ Organize non-computer related activities (e.g., sports)
  • $4$ Place gadgets away when not needed

Cyber Bullying

• What it is: Online bullying using digital tools; cyberbullying occurs in cyberspace via internet-enabled platforms; a significant share of youth are affected (e.g., $80\%$ of young people ages $7\text{-}16$ as victims per Stairway Foundation).
• Bullying vs cyberbullying: Bullying is face-to-face; cyberbullying happens online or through digital media.
• Forms of cyberbullying (as per the material):
  • $1$ Any unwanted physical contact that is carried out or supported via digital means (teasing or manipulation, sometimes with objects used as weapons)
  • $2$ Acts that damage a victim’s psyche and/or emotional well-being
  • $3$ Slanderous statements or accusations causing emotional distress (e.g., foul language, name-calling, negative comments about looks, clothes, or body)
  • (Note: These items reflect a list that includes both online and related indirect acts; cyberbullying spans these behaviors in cyberspace.)
• Legal context: Republic Act No. $10627$ – Anti-Bullying Act
• What is cyberbullying? Online bullying using technology (computers, phones) via text messages, chats, emails, websites, and social networks; can involve posting shameful pictures/videos or sending threatening or hurtful messages.
• Prevention (actions to take):
  • Be optimistic and seek support
  • Share concerns with a trusted person
  • Keep passwords private
  • Check content before posting or sharing
  • Always log out after use
  • Respect and love others and yourself