Social Networks as Agents of Societal Change in the Middle East: E-Cyberbullying as a Case Study

This study aims to delve into how the daily newspaper websites in Jordan approaches the topic of cyberbullying and discern the media frames employed in its coverage. Using content analysis as a research tool, the study analyzed 139 press articles published during the COVID-19 pandemic, split between Al-Rai and Al-Ghad newspapers (63 in Al-Rai and 76 in Al-Ghad). The findings showcased a distinct interest among Jordanian newspapers in shedding light on cyberbullying matters. Government officials emerged as pivotal sources for conveying these concerns, and it appeared that regular citizens were the primary recipients of cyberbullying incidents recounted within the published narratives. Significantly, the newspapers strongly preferred employing the awareness framework, particularly regarding the domains of prevention and intervention, to underscore their coverage of cyberbullying occurrences. Furthermore, the statistical analysis indicated a need for more noteworthy disparities between the two studied newspapers regarding the sources addressing cyberbullying. In light of these findings, the study recommends that the press ramp up efforts in fostering awareness about the dangers of bullying and its adverse societal implications. Additionally, it underscores the importance of amplifying cyberbullying coverage during crises. The study limitations are also discussed accordingly.