Participation of the family in resolving online conflicts among younger schoolchildren

Abstract

The article examines the specific features of family involvement in resolving online conflicts among younger schoolchildren that emerge during children’s communication in social networks, messaging platforms and interactive gaming environments. The paper highlights the distinctive characteristics of digital conflicts at this age, as well as their impact on children’s emotional well-being and social development. It is emphasised that the family environment plays a crucial role in developing safe and responsible online behaviour. Various forms and strategies of parental participation are analysed – ranging from control and monitoring to supportive partnership, joint discussion of incidents and the enhancement of children’s critical thinking. The importance of open communication, consistent rules and modelling constructive responses to conflicts is underscored. It is concluded that purposeful family engagement reduces the risks of escalation in online conflicts and contributes to the formation of conflict resolution competence among younger schoolchildren in the digital environment.