Links Between Cyberbullying, Self-Harm And Suicide Discovered In New Study
The study of over 150,000 under 25s from 30 different countries was undertaken in the U.K. by Swansea University. If you are affected by cyberbullying or online abuse, follow the links throughout this article to our various support services.
A recent international study carried out by the University of Swansea in the U.K. has indicated that young people who fall victim to cyberbullying are up to twice as likely to self-harm and/or attempt suicide than those who have not been victims. Researchers examined previous and existing studies with the purpose of discovering a link between cyberbullying, self-harm and suicide with young internet users.
To get the most targeted result, they gathered information from more than 150,000 under 25s in 30 different countries. They also used previous studies that stretched over the course of a 21 year period.
“Prevention of cyberbullying should be included in school anti-bullying policies, alongside broader concepts such as digital citizenship, online peer support for victims, how an electronic bystander might appropriately intervene; and more specific interventions such as how to contact mobile phone companies and internet service providers to block, educate, or identify users.”
Professor Ann John, Swansea University Medical School
The university concluded the study by indicating that as well as victims of cyberbullying being at greater risk of self-harm or thoughts of suicide than non-victims – people who bully online are more likely to have suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide when compared to people who don’t cyberbully others.
“Policy makers and schools should prioritize the inclusion of cyberbullying involvement in programs to prevent traditional bullying. Types of cyberbullying involvement, frequency, and gender should be assessed in future studies.”
Professor Ann John, Swansea University Medical School
If you are affected by any kind of online negativity, we can help you. Visit our Cyberbullying and Online Abuse Help Center for lots of practical tips and advice on how to deal with cyberbullying and harassment online. You can also access our trained support services by visiting our Total Access Support section and learning about the various ways that we can help you with your particular problem. For further information about Cybersmile and the work we do, please explore the recommendations below.
- Who Are Cybersmile?
- People We’ve Helped!
- The Cybersmile Conversation (Allow a few moments to load, but worth the wait!)
- Official Stop Cyberbullying Day 2018 Thunderclap Campaign Is Launched
- Global Support Service
- Instagram Star Chessie King And Cybersmile Team Up On Body Positivity Campaign
- Cybersmile Launch New Mental Health Resource
- Stop Cyberbullying Day
- Guide To Social Media And Body Image
- Cybersmile Advisory Panel
- Everything You Need To Know About The Blue Whale Challenge ‘Suicide Game’
- Positive Activist Program
- Cybersmile Newsroom
- Corporate Partnership Program
- Become A Cybersmile Sustainer
What are your thoughts about the link between cyberbullying, self-harm and suicide? Let us know by contacting us or tweet us @CybersmileHQ.
