"We know where to go and where not to go, what to do and what not to do online.": A qualitative study of Norwegian children's activities, risk assessment, and coping strategies on the Internet

Abstract

This article documents a study of 51 Norwegian children and adolescents, aged 10, 13 and 16 years. Qualitative focus group interviews were conducted to investigate the informants’ patterns of Internet use, risk assessment and coping strategies. The data were then coded, sorted and categorized, utilizing the steps of grounded theory. The results uncover a diverse range of activities with surprisingly little sensation seeking involved. The study further concludes that most risks are imposed, not voluntary. When encountering risks, the informants have well developed coping strategies for regaining control and diminishing distress. Hence, it is suggested that the low harm associated with Norwegian children’s online activities is due to a safety awareness and high online self-efficacy.