Research Michel Walrave

Abstract

Trust in public governance is essential for a well-functioning society. This is especially so in the face of grand societal challenges, which put increasing pressure on trust and spark distrust. In this respect, it is essential to understand how trust is built through successful governance. Equally important is recognising that trust in itself is a fundamental prerequisite for successful governance. Therefore, and building on previous work of the GOVTRUST Centre of Excellence on trust and multilevel governance, the new GOVTRUST research programme focuses on trust and distrust in the governance of societal transitions. In doing so, GOVTRUST will make significant interdisciplinary contributions to both the trust literature and the scholarship regarding the governance of transitions. Contemporary governance of society is increasingly defied by uncertain and disruptive challenges affecting every part of our society. Societal challenges, such as climate change and digitalisation, represent very complex, interdependent, and multi-dimensional problems that require collaborative efforts of public, private, and non-profit actors, as well as individual citizens. In responding to these complex challenges, major societal transitions - i.e., systemic changes and deliberate alterations in the functioning of society - are necessary. The standard governance repertoire has not been able to bring about such successful transitions: e.g., at several governance levels negotiations are blocked, and regulatory and policy frameworks are strongly contested, rigid, and inapt to respond to scientific advances. It is therefore crucial to rethink governance, both regarding the arrangements and processes needed to make collective decisions, and regarding the capacities and behaviours of organisational and individual actors at different levels of governance (incl. local, regional, national, EU, international levels). Trust is a fundamental condition for such complex governance systems to perform well. Although the literature and our own GOVTRUST research have shown that a certain degree of distrust between actors within a governance system (public, private and civil society actors) might be functional in specific instances, recurring reports of distrust point to significant problems. When trust evaporates and/or distrust rises, cooperation between these governance actors is compromised, making successful governance of societal transitions very hard to achieve. Moreover, the actual (lack of) response of governance systems to societal challenges will in turn have an impact on trust by citizens in those systems. Therefore, GOVTRUST will focus on trust and distrust in and within the governance of transitions. GOVTRUST's core aim is to understand and analyse the dynamics, causes and effects of trust and distrust in and within the governance of societal transitions. As interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial to achieve this aim, the GOVTRUST consortium unites strong research teams from political science, public administration, law, communication sciences, sociology, organisational behaviour, and learning sciences. By expanding the existing consortium with experts from sociology, organisational behaviour, and learning sciences, the GOVTRUST consortium has all the necessary conceptual, theoretical, and methodological expertise to make ground-breaking contributions. With its unique capacity and experience, GOVTRUST will engage in frontline conceptual and theoretical innovation, combining advanced methodological approaches that prioritise interdisciplinarity and the involvement of societal actors. In this way, the expanded GOVTRUST consortium will build on its acquired expertise to generate major scientific breakthroughs and substantial societal impacts regarding trust in the governance of societal transitions, while further consolidating and strengthening its international position and the international visibility of the University of Antwerp in the field.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verhoest Koen
• Co-promoter: Bursens Peter
• Co-promoter: Oosterlynck Stijn
• Co-promoter: Popelier Patricia
• Co-promoter: Van den Bossche Piet
• Co-promoter: van Zimmeren Esther
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Wynen Jan

Research team(s)

• Politics & Public Governance

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Since the rise of freely accessible pornographic streaming websites, porn consumption (PC) has become normative and widespread across most parts of the world. The rate of teenagers being exposed to pornography before the age of 13 has tripled over the last decade. The majority of young men masturbate several times a week (and even daily) with the help of pornography. PC can have a positive impact on body satisfaction, self- exploration and self-esteem but little evidence about the effects of PC on sexual development and later wellbeing is available. However, some negative (not necessarily proven ) information about pornography created a moral panic in several societies. The Flemish child help line receives regular calls of young people having difficulty to deal with pornrelated issues. Flemish students expressed the need for information and education about pornography related matters as early as possible. Care-providers see an important increase in young people consulting with (self-perceived porn induced) sexual dysfunctions. Our discussions with young people of diverse backgrounds made clear they need and want help in navigating the sexual explicit media they consume, especially in contexts where teachers and parents find it difficult to communicate about this. Further, in order to understand why some AYA's struggle, we further want to understand the impact of pornography consumption (or sudden abstinence from) in relation to young peoples' SWb in health care contexts. Our multidisciplinary multistakeholder project on sexual wellbeing (SWb) of Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) in the ethnically and sexually diverse society of Flanders will advance the knowledge in this polarized field. Given the increasing uptake of PC in our diverse society it's time that these issues are studied thoroughly and results implemented in lesson plans and applications in order to improve the SWb of AYA.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Win Gunter
• Co-promoter: Glazemakers Inge
• Co-promoter: T'Sas Jan
• Co-promoter: Van Hal Guido
• Co-promoter: Vermandel Alexandra
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) is entering the consumption market and proclaims to enhance the way in which we experience media. On the one hand, research strongly suggests that VR can be used in journalism, education, training, trauma and pain therapy, among many other applications. On the other hand, multinational companies (such as Meta, Google, and Sony) are investing heavily in the commercialisation of VR headsets to create a new social medium, which can have profound negative consequences; like the incident(s) of virtual harassment and assault. VR is perceived as a more interactive and immersive medium than video, capable of simulating real life. However, we do not know to what extent VR can indeed become a useful tool to increase prosocial behavior. Therefore, this research focuses on two aspects of VR: its efficacy in eliciting prosocial behavior, and its acceptance. The first aim is to investigate to what extent VR is capable of making people act more prosocially. A key concept for this analysis is 'empathy'. Empathy is treated as a crucial outcome of experiencing VR, and an important concept to induce prosocial behavior. The second objective aims to identify key factors of the user acceptance of VR, after experiencing prosocial content in VR. This project will offer a deeper understanding of the persuasive nature of VR, while also addressing important ethical concerns associated with the use of VR.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Fellow: Walewijns David

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Lately, there has been increasing societal and scientific attention to sexting and the criminal behaviour of non-consensual dissemination of sexts (NCDS) among adolescents and emerging adults. Yet, little empirical research has been executed to predict and explain this recent offence. This study attempts to fill this gap by examining which factors contribute to the (non-)occurrence of NCDS. In other words, this study aims to identify the factors that increase or decrease the likelihood of perpetration and victimisation of NCDS, referred to as risk- and protective factors. Through quantitative and qualitative research we aim to expand the explanation and understanding of (the occurrence of) this phenomenon. First, Flemish adolescents and emerging adults are surveyed about their possible perpetration and/or victimisation of NCDS and related factors (e.g., sociodemographic factors, contextual factors). In a second phase, perpetrators and victims are interviewed about their ideas of NCDS in general and the relevant contributing factors, as revealed by the survey, in the occurrence of this offence. As a result of expanding our understanding of the phenomenon, the study will also provide important insight and guidance for a societal response related to policy, support, education and prevention concerning this behaviour, which in turn helps to prevent the NCDS and to protect youth against it.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Contemporary governance of society is complex, as public authorities at different levels of government (EU, national, subnational) cooperate with non-state actors in multi-layered decision-making arenas when designing and implementing regulation. This complexity of governance is reflected in the concept of 'multi-level governance'. For a multi-level governance system to perform well, trust is a fundamental condition. While a certain degree of organised distrust between actors may be functional, the recurring reports of declining trust between citizens, private sector organizations, and public authorities at different governmental levels raise severe challenges for society. When trust declines, cooperation between citizens, private organizations, and government, but also between public authorities at the different levels of government is compromised. And without cooperation, effective governance is not possible. However, scientific knowledge about the dynamics, causes and effect of trust and distrust in multilevel governance is underdeveloped. Encompassing research teams from political science and public administration, law, communication sciences and behavioural economics, the research excellence consortium GOVTRUST will study in an interdisciplinary way the dynamics, causes and effects of trust and distrust between the actors involved in multi-level governance. To that end, the consortium will apply mixed research designs with diverse research methodologies, including legal studies, large-N surveys, different kinds of experiments, content analysis, social network analysis as well as small-N controlled case comparisons. With its research program, collaborations and activities the consortium will contribute to scientific knowledge at an international level of excellence, while increasing the international reputation of the University of Antwerp and aiming for a substantial impact on the governance of society.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verhoest Koen
• Co-promoter: Bursens Peter
• Co-promoter: Declerck Carolyn
• Co-promoter: Popelier Patricia
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Politics & Public Governance

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project investigates the modalities of cybercrime and connections with other criminal activities. Tools are developed for Law Enforcement Agencies to take into account these modalities, to help prevent and/or mitigate the impact of criminal acts and assist the understanding of cybercrime behaviours to enable prevention and law enforcement.​​​ By conducting a survey in 8 countries, the project will determine predictors of new forms of cybercriminality. We specifically focus on understanding factors that determine the following criminal behaviours: hacking, hate speech, digital piracy and image-based sexual abuse. An online tool will be created that young people and organisations can use to assess their vulnerability to cybercrime. We will create an online assessment/awareness/educational tool for youth, parents/caregivers/educators and other stakeholders. A self-assessment questionnaire will be developed for organisations and others to check their vulnerability to cybercrime attacks.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The 4th industrial revolution resulted in a new billion-dollar industry with a group of globally operating internet service providers (ISPs) in charge of what we daily see on social media, how we communicate, what information we will read on the basis of chosen algorithms. These ISPs often act as intermediaries enabling the sharing of content rather than creating content themselves. Therefore, under the current legal framework of e-commerce ISPs are not required to actively react against illegal or harmful content. The reasoning goes that only the users responsible for the content should be targeted to ensure the free flow of e-communication, e-commerce, the freedom of information and expression. This paradigm has been put in question due to the evolution of the internet as a platform for spreading hate, violence and crime. Cyberviolence is a specific part of this harmful online conduct, whereby digital action results in physical, sexual, psychological and/or economic harm or suffering of individuals. ISPs are already acting against harmful content if they are notified and some ISPs go a step further in self-regulating. Yet, this is often considered unsatisfactory. Therefore, NGOs, national and EU authorities currently discuss whether the exemption of liability for ISPs in the light of cyberviolence is still justified and whether authorities should not step in further. The project examines to what extent the current approach on cyberviolence is effective or needs further improvement. It focuses on two types of cyberviolence, online hate speech and non-consensual distribution of intimate images (NCII) or image-based sexual abuse. While existing legal and judicial tools are being scrutinised by Belgian and European authorities to better fight these forms of cyberviolence, a thorough understanding of these phenomena and their prevalence is still lacking, especially in Belgium. Therefore, this project in the first place wants to understand these phenomena in Belgium through qualitative research focusing on how users, moderators of ISPs and stakeholders delineate online hate and NCII and the permissible or harmful nature of such content. Based on these results, quantitative research will map the prevalence of the phenomena in Belgian society with a focus on digital natives. Moreover, victims' coping behaviors, their use of and trust in reporting mechanisms of several instances, will be assessed. In the second place it will be considered whether and how these phenomena can be tackled by legal and/or judicial response, building on current practices and the outcomes of the qualitative and quantitative research. The remedies against harmful content will be counterbalanced against the freedom of information and expression within the framework of the digital market. This includes the assessment of the role of public authorities and ISPs discussing whether new balances and legislative action are required. The research is intrinsically multi-disciplinary as it approaches the phenomena from the perspective of social sciences, criminology, anthropology, and legal sciences. Within the work packages the respective disciplines will interact to acquire in-depth, multi-faceted knowledge of both phenomena. Apart from the scientific output, the project intends to offer policy-makers and stakeholders a clear understanding of the phenomena for future initiatives and action, as well as to provide input on how to further develop the e-commerce framework taking into account the impact of cyberviolence.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Hoewel ingrijpende Covid-19 lockdownmaatregelen legitiem waren in de eerste maanden van de crisis, begint de roep om strenge maatregelen geleidelijk aan af te nemen. Burgers eisen dat exit-strategieën ontwikkeld worden met voldoende aandacht voor hun sociaaleconomische belangen, terwijl potentiële inbreuken op grondrechten zoals bewegingsvrijheid, privacy en eerlijke mededinging, en rechtsbeginselen zoals gelijkheid en proportionaliteit, leiden tot kritiek en zelfs rechtszaken tegen overheidsmaatregelen. De huidige overheidsstrategieën zijn hoofdzakelijk gebaseerd zijn op epidemiologisch en medisch onderzoek. De toenemende relevantie van sociale en juridische factoren voor exit-strategieën impliceert echter dat nieuwe data en kennis dringend nodig zijn. In het bijzonder is er behoefte aan inzicht in de voorwaarden waaronder Covid-19 overheidsmaatregelen sociaal legitiem en wettig zijn en burgers stimuleren tot naleving. Ons project verhelpt het gebrek aan wetenschappelijke en beleidsrelevante kennis van sociale en juridische factoren van belang bij Covid- 19 exit-strategieën, door middel van een dubbele onderzoekaanpak: 1) drie vignette surveys bestuderen hoe de nalevingsbereidheid en legitimiteit van combinaties van nieuwe Belgische Covid-19 maatregelen worden beïnvloed door framing op onderliggende volksgezondheids-, sociale en juridische belangen, en 2) een systematische juridische analyse genereert inzicht in de wettigheid van nieuwe maatregelen, en dient tevens als essentiële input voor het ontwerp van voornoemde vignette surveys. Door middel van continue communicatie aan overheden van resultaten uit zowel de vignette survey als de juridische analyse, kunnen we reeds gedurende het project beleidsrelevante input leveren voor concrete maatregelen. Daarmee helpen we overheden om geïnformeerde en gebalanceerde beslissingen te nemen over hun exit-strategieën en helpen we gebrekkige naleving van of rechtszaken tegen Covid-19 maatregelen te voorkomen.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Popelier Patricia
• Co-promoter: Bursens Peter
• Co-promoter: Declerck Carolyn
• Co-promoter: van Zimmeren Esther
• Co-promoter: Verhoest Koen
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Government and Law

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The potential and actual use of Big Data (BD) applications affects the theoretical and practical context of decision-making, learning and process optimisation in the public sector. DIGI4FED ​aims to develop a governance design that serves the internal administrative and public service processes of the Belgian federal government; a governance design that is embedded in the open governance ecosystem and makes full use of the potential offered by big data (BD) and its application via artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology (BCT​).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dooren Wouter
• Co-promoter: Verhoest Koen
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Politics & Public Governance

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The electronic delivery of both psychological and sexual forms of dating violence is called cyber dating abuse. Psychological forms of cyber dating abuse include monitoring the romantic partner through digital media (e.g., accessing accounts without permission), whereas sexual forms include mainly sexting under pressure. To date, little scholarly attention has been paid to cyber dating abuse in early adolescents' romantic relationships. Research among this age group is essential as teenagers who experiment with sexual behaviors, or initiate their first romantic relationships during this developmental period, are often at high risk of abuse. This project aims to gain a deeper understanding of the context in which cyber dating abuse takes place among early adolescents, using a qualitative as well as a quantitative approach.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Fellow: Van Ouytsel Joris

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Smartphones have permeated a large number of people's lives. Although mobile apps and other digital applications offer great advantages in terms of social connections and access to information, a growing number of users indicate they struggle with their smartphone use. Their mobile phone use sometimes impacts their social life, physical activity and sleep habits in a negative way. The PVI (Safety Instititute of the province of Antwerp) has developed an awaraness raising campaign (Kop Op) to stimulate people to use their smartphone in a more conscious way and, if needed, to restore the balance between smartphone use and other activities. To assess the impact of the activation tools that were developed (test, logging app, website) a combined qualitative (in-depth interviews) and quantitative (survey) study was performed. The study investigated respondents' smartphone use habits and motives and problems/challenges they face when using their device. The tools developed during the campaign were studied to assess if the tools support users in gaining insight into their smartphone use and stimulate them to have a more conscious use of their device. Also recommendations for the follow-up of the campaign were formulated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Digital technologies have opened up new avenues for perpetrators of teen dating violence to harm, control, stalk or harass their partners. To date, research on the recent phenomenon of adolescent cyber dating abuse has been mainly descriptive in nature and focuses on the link with negative health outcomes and other risk behaviors among victims. Little is known about the antecedents of cyber dating abuse perpetration. In order to design effective prevention strategies, however, research should focus on perpetration and apply complementary theoretical perspectives. This will allow us to compare the predictive power of the various frameworks and to provide educators with information on how to tailor their prevention efforts effectively to the main facilitators of cyber dating abuse perpetration.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Van Ouytsel Joris

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

During this sabbatical year research will be prepared and conducted, publications will be drafted in the framework of a research plan with the overarching theme online self-disclosure and privacy. First, motives and consequences of consumers' disclosure of personal data is studied. Projects within this first research line focus on online disclosure of personal data and abuse of personal data (e.g., phishing). Second, the exchange of personal information in online interpersonal communication is studied. Communication between parents and children and, more particularly, sharenting will be investigated. Next, the motives and risks of sexting, an intimate form of digital communication in romantic relationships, are analysed.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The use of social network sites (SNS) has rapidly increased over the past decade. As these sites revolve around the disclosure of personal information, scholars have critically discussed the possible implications of online self-disclosure, especially for adolescents. However, studies on SNS data disclosure are limited in several ways that inspired the project's objectives. First, most studies take a data-driven perspective and lack a theoretical angle. Consequently, this project is theory driven. Adolescents' self-disclosures will be investigated by applying complementary theoretical models: the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Prototype Willingness Model. The Protection Motivation Theory and the Technology Threat Avoidance Theory will be applied to investigate users' awareness and experience of risks related to self-disclosure and how this motivates protective behaviors. Second, most studies adopt a cross-sectional design. Therefore, the second objective of the project is to adopt a longitudinal approach to analyze how adolescents' behaviors evolve after experiencing specific outcomes of self-disclosure.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: De Kimpe Lies

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

As everyday devices are being connected to the Internet, research on large-scale wireless sensors networks specifically and Internet of Things (IoT) generally are becoming more and more important. There is a considerable research and innovation effort related to the deployment of smart cities using this IoT technology. However, there are still plenty of hurdles to move from R&D to implementation and real mass-scale deployment of wireless sensors networks. Moreover, the city itself is a treasure of data to be explored if the right sensors can be installed. Testbeds are the preferred tools for academic and industrial researchers to evaluate their research but a large-scale multi-technology smart city research infrastructure is currently the missing link. The City of Things research infrastructure will build a multi-technology and multi-level testbed in the city of Antwerp. As a result, 100 locations around the city of Antwerp and its harbour will be equipped with gateways supporting multiple wireless IoT protocols. These gateways will connect with hundreds of wireless sensors and actuators, measuring smart city parameters such as traffic flows, noise, air pollution, etc.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Blondia Chris
• Co-promoter: Blust Ronny
• Co-promoter: De Backer Charlotte
• Co-promoter: Goethals Bart
• Co-promoter: Hellinckx Peter
• Co-promoter: Latré Steven
• Co-promoter: Poels Karolien
• Co-promoter: Samson Roeland
• Co-promoter: Vandebosch Heidi
• Co-promoter: Vanelslander Thierry
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Weyn Maarten

Research team(s)

• Internet Data Lab (IDLab)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we will develop evidence-based tools to tackle cyberbullying amongst adolescents. A first tool will be aimed at parents of adolescents and consists of online narratives. The second tool will be aimed at school teams, and promote discussion, evaluation and planning of a whole-school approach.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandebosch Heidi
• Co-promoter: Poels Karolien
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Digital technologies have opened up new avenues for perpetrators of teen dating violence to harm, control, stalk or harass their partners. To date, research on the recent phenomenon of adolescent cyber dating abuse has been mainly descriptive in nature and focuses on the link with negative health outcomes and other risk behaviors among victims. Little is known about the antecedents of cyber dating abuse perpetration. In order to design effective prevention strategies, however, research should focus on perpetration and apply complementary theoretical perspectives. This will allow us to compare the predictive power of the various frameworks and to provide educators with information on how to tailor their prevention efforts effectively to the main facilitators of cyber dating abuse perpetration.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Van Ouytsel Joris

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project collects data about the parent-child communication regarding internet use and online contact risks, such as for instance sexting (i.e., the sharing of sexual pictures by means of mobile phone or other online devices and applications) and cyberbullying (bullying via the internet or mobile phone). Also the possible preventative and/or curative measures taken by parents in the context of these risks are considered. The research project is a collaboration between Odisee and University of Antwerp. The following researchers are involved: Dr. Wannes Heirman, Prof. dr. Michel Walrave, Prof. dr. Koen Ponnet, dr. Katrien Symons, drs. Kathleen Emmery and drs. Griet Frère.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Heirman Wannes
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research project aims to examine how dimensions of friendship quality in different types of adolescent friendship on SNS (offline-to-online, online-to-offline, exclusively online SNS friendships) evolve over a two-year period. Moreover, we will establish the causal pathways between adolescents' use of SNS and indicators of their psychosocial well-being by comparing their levels of self-esteem, loneliness, anxiety feelings and satisfaction with life across data waves.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Hardies Kris

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Young people have rapidly taken up social network sites (SNSs) as their preferred online communication platforms. While using SNSs, adolescents self-disclose, they entrust information about, amongst others, their personal experiences. Moreover, they form and deepen relationships with their SNS contacts, which contributes to their social capital. Research focusing on adolescents, self-disclosure and social capital is, however, characterized by several limitations that this project aims to address. Until now research has focused on SNS users' profile information or used general measures of self-disclosure. However, young people may experience changes in important domains of their personal life, such as their appearance and relationships, and be inclined to self-disclose about them on SNSs. Therefore, this project takes a longitudinal approach to investigate how young people self-disclose on SNSs about several domains of their personal life. By doing so, this project analyzes how self-disclosure in these domains evolves over time and possibly relates to psychological and social gratifications adolescents may experience. Regarding the psychological aspects, this project will add to the current literature by investigating the antecedents (in terms of personality traits) and consequences (e.g. well-being) of adolescents' disclosures in several domains. Subsequently, how gratifications possible lead to changes in self-disclosure, will also be analyzed. As far as social gratifications are concerned, this project will study the relationship between self-disclosure and young people's changes in social capital. In turn, how variations in social capital may influence adolescents' consecutive disclosures, will also be investigated longitudinally. Finally, next to positive outcomes of young people's self-disclosure in terms of well-being and social capital, the impact of negative experiences will be studied too. More particularly, the project investigates how adolescents' self-disclosing behaviour possibly lead to negative outcomes and how they, in turn, influence subsequent self-disclosures.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Van Gool Ellen

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Poels Karolien
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the client. UA provides the client research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The use of social network sites (SNS) has rapidly increased over the past decade. As these sites revolve around the disclosure of personal information, scholars have critically discussed the possible implications of online self-disclosure, especially for adolescents. However, studies on SNS data disclosure are limited in three ways that inspired the project's objectives. First, most studies focus on data provided in online profiles and how profile privacy settings are used. Revealing personal information while using SNS has been less investigated. Therefore, the present project will contribute to the literature by analyzing predictors and consequences of self-disclosure of adolescents while using SNS. Furthermore, the project will investigate youngsters' protective behaviors when self-disclosing. Second, most studies take a data-driven perspective and lack a theoretical angle. Consequently, the second objective of the project is theory driven. Adolescents' self-disclosures will be investigated by applying an extended model based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. The Protection Motivation Theory will be applied to investigate users' awareness and experience of risks related to self-disclosure and how this motivates protective behaviors. Finally, most studies adopt a cross-sectional design. Therefore, the third objective of the project is to adopt a longitudinal approach to analyze how adolescents' behavior evolves after experiencing specific outcomes of self-disclosure.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Van Ouytsel Joris

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project concerns "personalised advertising" on social networking sites. These advertisements are aimed at, and tailored to, the individual user of the social networking site. The project aims at identifying the most efficient way of using personalisation in advertising on social networking sites. The moderating role of "privacy concern" will be taken into account. This research is divided into three complementary sub-projects and focuses on possible future applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Poels Karolien
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel
• Fellow: Van den Broeck Evert

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

For the past three decades, scientific and public debates have been held on the influence of advertising on children and adolescents. Today, this remains an important subject of scientific research. However, the research conducted so far focuses almost exclusively on mass-media advertising. With children spending increasing amounts of time online, there is a clear need for empirical research on children/teens and their ability to understand the persuasive intent of commercial messages on the internet. Many of the previous research on children's and teens' understanding of (traditional) advertising has primarily focused on age. We will therefore investigate the ability of children and adolescents at different ages to recognize and understand the persuasive intent of two different forms of Internet advertising. Moreover, this project extends prior studies, by also taking several other influences into account. To do so, we will develop a website with different banners and different advergames. By using an experimental design, we will be able to measure whether children's and adolescents' recognition and understanding of Internet advertising depend on and/or is associated with (a) the type of Internet advertisement, (b) the child's involvement with the advertised product, and (c) different characteristics of the child and its environment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Vanwesenbeeck Ini

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The use of social network sites (SNS) has rapidly increased over the past decade. As these sites revolve around the disclosure of personal information, scholars have critically discussed the possible implications of online self-disclosure, especially for adolescents. However, studies on SNS data disclosure are limited in three ways that inspired the project's objectives. First, most studies focus on data provided in online profiles and how profile privacy settings are used. Revealing personal information while using SNS has been less investigated. Therefore, the present project will contribute to the literature by analyzing predictors and consequences of self-disclosure of adolescents while using SNS. Furthermore, the project will investigate youngsters' protective behaviors when self-disclosing. Second, most studies take a data-driven perspective and lack a theoretical angle. Consequently, the second objective of the project is theory driven. Adolescents' selfdisclosures will be investigated by applying an extended model based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. The Protection Motivation Theory will be applied to investigate users' awareness and experience of risks related to self-disclosure and how this motivates protective behaviors. Finally, most studies adopt a cross-sectional design. Therefore, the third objective of the project is to adopt a longitudinal approach to analyze how adolescents' behavior evolves after experiencing specific outcomes of self-disclosure.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Van Gool Ellen

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and the Flemish Public Service. UA provides the Flemish Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract. The main objective is to investigate the media representation of young parenthood on Flemish television and its reception among socially vulnerable young people.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Paulussen Steve
• Co-promoter: Dhoest Alexander
• Co-promoter: Maeseele Pieter
• Co-promoter: Mortelmans Dimitri
• Co-promoter: Neels Karel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Co-promoter: Vandebosch Heidi
• Co-promoter: Van den Bulck Hilde
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Antwerp Media in Society Centre (AMSoC)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is to design a framework for media literacy in teacher education (Media Didactica), in which curricula for media literacy in the teacher education are elaborated. This framework enables teacher educators to develop and evaluate their expertise in the field of media literacy. Two substantive pillars underpin the curricula: (1) the use of media as a learning tool in and outside the school and (2) critical reflection on the impact of media on learning and development processes in classroom, school and society. The framework is an elaboration of media literacy as it is specified in the development profile of the teacher educator. The curricula are independent of subject matter. They are meant for all teacher educators and by extension also for the students in teacher education and for teachers.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Meeus Wil
• Co-promoter: Mets Boris
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Didactica

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the client. UA provides the client research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Poels Karolien
• Co-promoter: Vandebosch Heidi

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

For the past three decades, scientific and public debates have been held on the influence of advertising on children and adolescents. Today, this remains an important subject of scientific research. However, the research conducted so far focuses almost exclusively on mass-media advertising. With children spending increasing amounts of time online, there is a clear need for empirical research on children/teens and their ability to understand the persuasive intent of commercial messages on the internet. Many of the previous research on children's and teens' understanding of (traditional) advertising has primarily focused on age. We will therefore investigate the ability of children and adolescents at different ages to recognize and understand the persuasive intent of two different forms of Internet advertising. Moreover, this project extends prior studies, by also taking several other influences into account. To do so, we will develop a website with different banners and different advergames. By using an experimental design, we will be able to measure whether children's and adolescents' recognition and understanding of Internet advertising depend on and/or is associated with (a) the type of Internet advertisement, (b) the child's involvement with the advertised product, and (c) different characteristics of the child and its environment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Ponnet Koen
• Fellow: Vanwesenbeeck Ini

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand EUN Partnership. UA provides EUN Partnership research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: De Backer Charlotte
• Co-promoter: Poels Karolien
• Co-promoter: Vandebosch Heidi

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The first goal of this study is to develop a multi-dimensional measurement instrument for cyber-bullying. The second goal of this study is to describe the social dimension of cyber-bullying by means of Social Network Analysis. The third goal of the study is to conduct a longitudinal study that takes the development of adolescents as well as of their social network into account.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandebosch Heidi
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Vandebosch Heidi

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In October 2005, the University of Antwerp, at the request of viwTA and the Commission for Culture, Youth, Sport and the Media of the Flemish Parliament, conducted a large-scale survey into cyberbullying among youngsters in Flanders. In order to establish a clear picture of the phenomenon, the study tried to gain insight into ICT use by youngsters and their experiences with traditional forms of bullying as well as cyberbullying. A total of 636 primary school children and 1416 pupils from secondary education completed a questionnaire on their use of the Internet and mobile phones and their personal experiences with traditional and cyberbullying. The full text of the research report is available at the website of viWTA: www.viwta.be

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandebosch Heidi
• Co-promoter: Mortelmans Dimitri
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Today's youth is overwhelmed with information about numerous issues. One could say there is an information overload. This complicates decision-making for youngsters since not all information is objective, clear, nor adjusted to the information needs of young people. Furthermore, the information is not always accessible for the target group that is aimed at. It is obvious that young people need more specialized information in order to have an overview of their possibilities and opportunities which enable them to make the right decisions. Thus, efficient information is a first requirement for young people to find their way in our society. This research aims to develop a coherent youth information policy. On the basis of the description of the research domain, we will examine organizations which fulfill an explicit role with regard to youth information. In addition, we look at the the policy domains in which information initiatives have been established. With the help of in-depth interviews, there will be a study of the extent to which the information is within reach of the target group and how the target group is involved in the development of the information. On the basis of the research results, recommendations will be made about the current information amount. Furthermore, suggestions will be formulated to enhance the participation of juveniles in the development of information aimed at young people.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Mortelmans Dimitri
• Co-promoter: Vandebosch Heidi
• Co-promoter: Walrave Michel

Research team(s)

• Centre for Population, Family and Health

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Working independently from time and space using ICT, also called telework or e-work, will be analysed theoretically and empirically in this project. The range of potentialities and limits of telework, the success factors and pitfalls of e-work experienced by teleworkers and their employers will be explored. This study will focus in particular on the influence of telework on organisational communication, management and coaching and on the influence on the balance between work and private life.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Walrave Michel
• Co-promoter: Mortelmans Dimitri

Research team(s)

• Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project