Open access
YOUTH FACING THE CHALLENGES OF GLOBALIZATION AND THE KNOWLEDGE SOCIETY – INTERNET CHALLENGES AS NEW FORMS OF RISKY BEHAVIOR
Marek OZIMEK1, Ewa ZIMNA2
Publication language: English
scientific paper
Transformations No. 2(125)2025, Publication date: 30 June 2025
Keywords: Internet challenges, risky behaviors, cyberspace, youth, social pathologies, prevention
Abstract The article addresses the issue of dangerous Internet challenges as a new form of risky behavior among young people, considered in the context of globalization and the knowledge society. The author analyzes the multifaceted nature of these challen-ges, taking into account the psychological, sociological and legal perspectives, while emphasizing the threats to the physical and mental health of children and young people. The text indicates key factors determining the undertaking of Internet challenges, such as identity crisis, family dysfunctions, peer pressure and the influence of social media. Particular attention is paid to negative challenges that pose a real threat to life and health (e.g. Momo Challenge, Pass Out Challenge, Fire Challenge), although the author also draws attention to positive, pro-social initiatives of this type. In order to explain the motivation of young people to undertake such behaviors, the author refers to selected psychological theories, including Albert Bandura's social learning theory and Marvin Zuckerman's sensation seeking concept . The article emphasizes the need to take preventive measures involving family, school and social institutions, as well as the need to develop media competences, critical thinking and mental resilience among young people. The need to create integrated and interdisciplinary strategies to protect young people from the threats of cyberspace and to shape responsible participation in digital culture was also pointed out.
State Academy of Applied Sciences in Chełm, Police Training Center in Lublin, Poland
ORCID: 0000-0002-9999-3262
E-mail: ozimekmarek@wp.pl
John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Police Training Center in Lublin, Poland
ORCID: 0009-0004-0692-1158
E-mail: ewa.zimna@kul.pl