Cyberbullying Among University Students

Cyberbullying Among University Students

Abstract

Cyberbullying refers to the application of electronic media to victimize a person mostly by sending intimidating images or messages. Research indicates that low self-esteem, gender, and depression are among the factors associated with cyberbullying. Poor academic performance may also contribute to an individual engaging in cyberbullying. A majority of the students who are victims of cyberbullying report the incident to their parents or friends. Many students avoid reporting the event to teachers. Most studies do not focus on cyberbullying characters amid university students. However, researchers indicate that internet self-efficacy and victimization experience result in individuals perpetrating cyberbullying. Alcohol use, cigarette smoking, and substance abuse lead to people committing or being victims of cyberbullying. Sexual orientation also affects one’s susceptibility to bullying. Nonheterosexuals, especially men are at a high risk of being victims of cyberbullying.

Introduction

Technology advancement has made it possible for young people to intimidate one another away from school grounds and without being in physical proximity. According to Yang et al. (2013), bullies use computers and cell phones to intimidate victims without minding the repercussions of their actions. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying enables teenagers to threaten their colleagues from multiple locations. The increase in accessibility and popularity of the internet has resulted in a high number of youths and adults falling victim to cyberbullying.

Determinants of Traditional and Cyberbullying

According to Yang et al. (2013), numerous factors are associated with traditional and cyberbullying. They include low self-esteem, depression, and gender. Yang et al. (2013) claim that individuals who perform poorly in academics and suffer from depression are likely to perpetrate traditional bullying. Moreover, persons who previously engaged in traditional bullying are likely to commit cyberbullying. The researchers allege that the nature of a family contributes to one being a victim or architect of traditional and cyberbullying. Individuals brought up by single mothers are at a high risk of being perpetrators or victims of traditional bullying. They are also vulnerable to cyberbullying. People with high attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are liable for engaging in traditional bullying or falling victims of the same. Yang et al. (2013) allege that male students who perform poorly in class are at a high risk of perpetrating and falling victims of cyberbullying.