Virtual But No Less Real

The UWA Institute of Advanced Studies invites you to join us for this public talk, which is part of our newly established UWA Emeriti Professors College Series. This series celebrates the ongoing and vital contributions of our Emeriti Professors to the University and the Community-at-Large.

A public talk by Emeritus Professor Donna Cross OAM

Over the past two decades, children’s and young people’s online behaviour has transformed their communication, wellbeing and identity formation. Digital technology can enable social support and community building while also exposing children and young people to negative experiences that can impact their health, behaviour and wellbeing.

This presentation will address recent evidence highlighting the prevalence and predictors of helpful and harmful online behaviour, particularly cyberbullying. It will also discuss the complex relationship between online behaviour and the physical and mental health and wellbeing of young people, and the evidence-based actions needed to enhance the online safety and wellbeing of children and young people, while minimising potential harms.

Dr Donna Cross OAM is a behavioural scientist and Emeritus Professor at The University of Western Australia, Strategic Advisor to the Kids Research Institute Australia and the Chief Behavioural Advisor for the NSW government. Donna’s research addresses children’s and adolescents’ social and emotional wellbeing, mental health promotion, bullying prevention, and positive and safe online behaviour.

For her leadership improving children’s and adolescents’ mental health and wellbeing Donna received an OAM, was the 2012 WA Australian of the Year, the 2022 inductee to the WA Women’s Hall of Fame and the 2023 WA Science Hall of Fame. Donna is also a fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Science.