A recent study involving Effat University reseachers examines the role of positive and negative psychotic experiences (PEs) in the relationship between cyberbullying (both victimisation and perpetration) and suicide ideation (SI).
The prevalence of cyberbullying has become a significant concern, especially when considering its impact on one's mental health. While not all individuals involved in cyberbullying—whether as perpetrators or victims—contemplate suicide, research suggests that they are at an increased risk.
This alarming connection raises an important question: what are the mechanisms involved in the association between cyberbullying and suicidality?
[Image source: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/social-media-troll-harassing-people-social-media_13463116.htm]
The Challenge of Controlling Cyberbullying
Efforts to reduce cyberbullying are essential, but completely controlling or eliminating it is difficult.
The Internet's anonymity and vast reach creates unique challenges that make curbing harmful behaviours more complex than in traditional, face-to-face interactions such as in an education setting.
The nature of the Internet means that harmful content can spread rapidly and across different platforms. A single post, comment, or message can quickly go viral, making it nearly impossible to contain or erase once it’s made its way online. Even when content is removed, traces often remain, and the psychological impact on victims can be long-lasting.
Given these unique challenges, it’s clear that while efforts to reduce cyberbullying must continue, they are not enough on their own.
A more comprehensive strategy is needed—one that not only addresses the behaviour itself but also considers the broader context in which cyberbullying occurs. This includes fostering digital literacy, promoting empathy and respectful communication online, and providing mental health support for those affected by cyberbullying.
Methodology and Findings
The study was conducted between June and September 2022, involving 3,103 healthy participants from Lebanon, with an average age of 21.73 years. Of these participants, 63.6% were female which is not surprising when there still remains a stigma around men’s mental health.
As expected, higher levels of cyberbullying were directly associated with more severe suicidal ideation. Besides, our research found that both positive and negative psychotic experiences partially mediated the link between cyberbullying (as both victim and perpetrator) and suicidal ideation. This means that those who were involved in cyberbullying were more likely to experience psychotic symptoms, which, in turn, increased their risk of suicidal thoughts.
Read the full study here:
Preventing Cyberbullying and its Consequences
Given the complex relationship between cyberbullying, psychotic experiences, and suicide risk, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Here are some strategies that can help:
1. Education and Awareness
Schools should educate students of all ages about responsible online behaviour, emphasising empathy, respect, and the consequences of cyberbullying.
Understanding the signs of distress, including the potential connection between cyberbullying and suicide, can encourage early intervention.
2. Early Intervention
Teachers, parents, and peers should be trained to recognise the signs of both cyberbullying and mental distress. Early intervention can prevent the escalation of harmful behaviours and mental health issues.
All schools should provide easy access to counselling and mental health resources. Encouraging students to seek help if they are experiencing bullying or distress is key to early intervention.
3. Promote Positive Online Environments
Campaigns that promote positive online interactions can help create a more supportive digital environment. Peer-led initiatives can be particularly effective in fostering a culture of respect.
Social media platforms, schools, and workplaces should enforce strict anti-bullying policies. Reporting mechanisms should be easy to access and protect the privacy of those who come forward.
4. Collaborative Efforts
Parents should be involved in educating their children about the risks of cyberbullying and monitoring their online activity. Community programs can provide additional support for families.
Governments can play a role in preventing cyberbullying by enacting laws that address online harassment and protecting vulnerable populations from abuse.
5. Addressing Internal Factors
Mental health professionals should assess individuals involved in cyberbullying for psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia or hallucinations, even if these symptoms are mild. Addressing these internal factors may reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help individuals cope with both the emotional impact of bullying and any underlying psychotic symptoms.
World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10th), is a vital global initiative aimed at raising awareness about suicide and promoting actions to prevent it. This day highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address the complex factors that contribute to suicide, including the growing issue of cyberbullying.
As research shows, those involved in cyberbullying may be at a higher risk of suicidal ideation. Given the challenges of completely controlling cyberbullying efforts to reduce it must be paired with broader strategies that include mental health support, education on responsible online behaviour, and a focus on fostering empathy.
On this day, it's crucial to advocate for a holistic approach that involves schools, policymakers, tech companies, and communities working together to create safer online environments for everyone and provide support for those at risk.
Conclusion
Cyberbullying is a complex issue with far-reaching mental health implications, particularly concerning suicide risk. While reducing cyberbullying is vital, a comprehensive approach that addresses both external factors, like bullying, and internal factors, such as psychotic experiences, is necessary.
By educating the public, intervening early, providing mental health support, and fostering positive online environments, we can help protect individuals from the harmful effects of cyberbullying and reduce the risk of suicide. Future research will continue to shed light on the complex dynamics at play, helping us refine and improve our strategies for prevention.
Worldwide Mental Health Helplines
If you or someone you know who is in need of help, please contact your local suicide prevention hotline which can be found here.
If you are in crisis/ in an emergency situation, please contact your local emergency number - they are also fully trained to help you during this time.
