Violencia digital en una institución de educación superior ecuatoriana: percepciones y estrategias psicopedagógicas desde la perspectiva del personal administrativo

Abstract

Abstract: The study aimed to analyze the perceptions and experiences of administrative staff regarding digital violence at an Ecuadorian higher education institution, with the goal of identifying psycho-pedagogical strategies for its prevention and management, as well as for improving the organizational climate. A qualitative approach with a descriptive-interpretative design was employed; the sample consisted of five administrative staff members from an institution located in the city of Loja. Data were collected using an open-ended qualitative questionnaire, a focus group, and brainstorming techniques; the information was subsequently organized, coded, and interpreted using Bardin s thematic content analysis. The results revealed ambivalent perceptions: some participants showed a lack of awareness or failed to recognize the problem, while others identified instances of cyberbullying, intimidation, extortion, stalking, the spreading of rumors, and the dissemination of offensive content. The normalization of these behaviors often dismissed as jokes on WhatsApp, social media, and chat platforms was also observed, noting their emotional, relational, and professional impacts. The study concludes that there is a need for awareness-raising initiatives, digital literacy training, psychological and institutional support, and clear protocols for detection, reporting, intervention, evidence preservation, follow-up, and referral to protect staff members.