At this year’s EDULEARN2025 conference, our team proudly presented the initial outcomes of our Erasmus+ project “Online Safety: Protecting Teenagers from Antisocial Behaviour on Social Media” (2024-1-NL02-KA210-YOU000254138). The project addresses one of the most pressing challenges faced by teenagers across Europe today—navigating social media safely and resisting antisocial behavior online.
Our mission is not only to equip teenagers with knowledge and skills for safe digital navigation, but also to empower youth workers and educators with tools to guide teens in developing emotional regulation, mindfulness, and empathy in the online space. Our presentation received strong support for its non-formal and inclusive approach.
A key highlight of the presentation was our anonymous online survey of 163 teenagers aged 12–18 from the Netherlands, Sweden, and other EU countries. The study revealed important trends.
Research-Driven Approach: What Teens Told Us
Most teenagers use social media extensively for communication, entertainment, and news. A majority have encountered or witnessed antisocial behavior online. Teens value privacy but often underestimate the risks of sharing personal content. Emotional regulation is a common gap in their coping strategies.
These findings reinforced the urgency and relevance of our educational goals and informed the design of our upcoming SAFE ONLINE Workshop.
From Research to Action: Introducing the SAFE ONLINE Workshop
We introduced the next phase of our project: the development of an engaging, non-formal SAFE ONLINE learning program for teens. The workshop has been piloted in Apeldoorn, Netherlands. This interactive workshop focuses on:
1. Identifying harmful behavior online
2. Using nonviolent communication to stop online aggression
3. Practicing empathetic communication
4. Creating a positive and authentic online presence
By addressing these core skills, we aim to foster digital resilience, especially among vulnerable youth who are disproportionately affected by online hostility.
Looking Ahead
EDULEARN2025 provided a powerful platform to share our vision and connect with educators, policymakers, and youth professionals from across Europe. The feedback we received has energized us to move forward with greater clarity and motivation.
We believe that protecting teenagers online is a shared responsibility, and through collaborative efforts, education, and empathy, we can make social media a safer and more empowering space for young people.
Online Safety 