From Social Networks to Real Life: The Impact of Schoolboys’ Education on Respectful Behavior Towards Schoolgirls in the 4.0 era

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of schoolboys’ education on fostering respectful behavior toward schoolgirls in the 4.0 era, characterized by pervasive digital technology and social networks. The research addressed a critical gap by focusing on boys' education as a means to promote gender respect and equality. Methodologically, the authors used a quantitative research approach, then developed an online survey using Google forms and a 5-level Likert scale to collect primary data from 260 respondents at local high schools, colleges, and Asian institutions where international students from various Asian regions study. The linear regression results revealed awareness and knowledge building play the most influential role in shaping schoolboys' education, with a strong impact score of .827. Skill development and practice also had a notable effect, scoring .69 in this digital age. Additionally, peer group norms acted as a key moderating factor (.55), enhancing the influence of awareness and knowledge building on schoolboys' education. The uniqueness of the study lay in its focus on the role of educating schoolboys to promote respect toward schoolgirls, particularly in the 4.0 era, where social media and digital technologies strongly shape perceptions and behaviors. This research specifically examined the impact of awareness-building, skill development, and the moderating role of peer group norms. Additionally, it integrated Social Learning Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior, offering a novel framework to bridge the gap between online and real-world behaviors.