INTERNATIONAL: Young Victims of Cyberbullying Twice as Likely to Attempt Suicide and Self-Harm

May 04, 2018

News Type:  Weekly Spark, Weekly Spark News

EurekAlert!

According to a recent study, youth victims of cyberbullying are at increased risk for self-harm and suicidal behaviors. Researchers examined data from more than 150,000 youth across 30 countries over 21 years. They found that children and young people under age 25 who were victims of cyberbullying were more than twice as likely to engage in self-harm and suicidal behaviors than their non-victim peers. The findings also indicated that perpetrators of cyberbullying were at increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The researchers suggested that schools implement anti-bullying programs addressing the needs of both victims and perpetrators, and foster inclusivity. “Suicide prevention and intervention is essential within any comprehensive anti-bullying program and should incorporate a whole-school approach to include awareness raising and training for staff and pupils,” they wrote.

Spark Extra! Read the research article.