The effect of web-based cyber sexual violence training and consultancy on cyber sexual violence experience, sensitivity and cyber security

Aim: This study aimed to determine the effects of web-based cyber sexual violence education and counseling on cyber sexual violence experience, sensitivity, and cybersecurity. Material and method: A randomized controlled pretest–posttest trial was conducted with 142 female students enrolled in the primary and preschool teaching departments of Harran University Faculty of Education. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=70) and a control group (n=72). Data were collected using the Participant Information Form, CSAS, CSS and PCPS. Female students in the experimental group received web-based cyber sexual violence education and counseling. Post-test forms were administered 12 weeks after the pre-test in both groups. Results: Post-test findings indicated that the experimental group had significantly higher CSAS mean scores compared to the control group, suggesting increased sensitivity to cyberbullying (p<0.001). Conversely, the experimental group's CSS mean scores were significantly lower, indicating reduced cyber sexual violence victimization (p<0.001). Subscale analyses showed that unwanted sexual texts and unwanted sexual requests scores were also significantly lower in the experimental group (p < .001). Additionally, the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher PCPS mean scores, reflecting improved cybersecurity levels (p<0.001). All PCPS subscale scores were higher in the experimental group compared to the control group at post-test (p<0.001). Conclusion: Web-based education and counseling on cyber sexual violence effectively enhanced students' sensitivity to cyberbullying, reduced experiences of cyber sexual violence, and improved their overall cybersecurity levels. Keywords: Cyber, Sexual violence, Education, Counseling, Nursing