The Consequences of Cyberbullying

A new report by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) sheds light on the serious consequences of cyberbullying. According to the new study, 9% of young adolescents (average age: 12) reported being a target of cyberbullying. Female and Black participants were more likely to be bullied. 

According to the research, young people who experienced cyberbullying were four times more likely to report suicidal thoughts and attempts compared to youth who didn’t experience it. But unlike in-person bullying, people who are the aggressors in cyberbullying did not report higher risks of suicidal thoughts or attempts. Researchers suggested that this may be due to the fact that cyberbullies often don’t observe and understand the impact of their bullying on others. 

“At a time when young adolescents are spending more time online than ever before, this study underscores the negative impact that bullying in the virtual space can have on its targets,” Dr. Ran Barzilay of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia said. “It may be prudent for primary care providers to screen for cyberbullying routinely in the same way that they might screen for other suicide risk factors like depression. Parents and educators should also be aware of this risk factor.”

In our Today’s Digital Citizens curriculum, as well as Today’s Technology and Communication, we speak with youth about their experiences with cyberbullying. While youth are sometimes hesitant to open up about such a sensitive topic, others are eager to talk about something so important. Our conversations often reveal that cyberbullying can be difficult to recognize and that young people don’t always know what to do when they witness it or experience it themselves. Our facilitators make sure youth know that they aren’t alone and that they should share these experiences with an adult. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, dial 988 or click here.