Negatives of virtual social networks

The thesis deals with potential negative impacts associated with a use of virtual social networks. The aim of this bachelor thesis is to map possible dangers associated with the use of virtual social networks for pupils of 3rd to 9th classes of elementary schools and students of 1st ? 2nd years of secondary schools. The theoretical part is devoted to an explanation of basic areas related to those issues: cyberspace, internet, virtual social networks, netiquette and cyberbullying. The subsection dealing with virtual social networks is, due to a worldwide development of the popularity of global internet communication servers, focused on a presentation of the current phenomenon of Facebook. This thesis has been focused on the cyberbullying as a potential risk arising from the use of the social networks. For the purpose of the thesis a quantitative research using a questionnaire survey with pupils from elementary and secondary schools was chosen. The researched sample has consisted of pupils from two elementary schools and students from one secondary school in Písek. The results show that virtual social networks are a risk area for children and young people. The research has proved that it is necessary to inform not only children, but as well as teachers and parents against the risks of virtual social networks. To implement preventive programs on cyberbullying in schools should be a part of an educational process from an early age of the pupils. The bachelor thesis can be used as an informational material for school counselors, educators and parents of the elementary and secondary schools