Cyberbullying and mental health of adolescents
Abstract
Cyberbullying can cause psychological and physical harm. Victims experience negative outcomes which may include distress, lower academic performance and self-harm. Long-term consequences of cyberbullying include hyperactivity, conduct issues and psychosomatic symptoms such as headaches. This study investigates the incidents and effects of cyberbullying among a sample of 367 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 16. Results show that 18% resorted to self-harm and 30% experienced suicidal ideation. Cyberbullying needs to be given more importance by health professionals since it manifests itself in various negative outcomes affecting wellbeing.
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