CYBERBULLYING AND THE PSYCHOLOGICAL STATE OF A CYBERBULLYING VICTIM. CONSEQUENCES AND METHODS OF RESISTANCE

DOI: 10.31673/2412-4338.2025.048909

Abstract

The article addresses the pressing issue of cyberbullying—aggressive behavior carried out through digital technologies, which has become particularly widespread among young people in today’s information society. Statistical data indicate that cyberbullying occurs not only among children and adolescents but also among adults; however, youth remain the primary risk group. This is largely due to their high level of online engagement, as well as the societal transformations associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The article systematizes the main forms of cyberbullying, including verbal insults, defamation, harassment, impersonation through fake profiles, dissemination of personal information, social exclusion, persistent stalking, and explicit threats. Special attention is given to the psychological consequences experienced by victims, which may include chronic stress, depression, anxiety, decreased self-esteem, psychosomatic symptoms, the development of post-traumatic stress disorder, destructive thoughts, behavioral changes, self-harm, and suicidal tendencies. The authors identify key factors that hinder effective counteraction to cyberbullying, such as low levels of digital literacy among users and the passivity of the surrounding social environment. Legislative initiatives in various countries are analyzed, including those in Ukraine, where administrative liability for bullying (Article 173-4 of the Code of Administrative Offenses) has been in effect since 2019; however, its application is limited to participants in the educational process, which does not fully encompass cyberbullying cases that occur outside educational institutions. The article further examines the role of social networks in shaping a safe digital environment, emphasizing the importance of timely responses to complaints, content-filtering mechanisms, and awareness-raising campaigns. It outlines common indicators that may help identify a victim of cyberbullying and provides practical recommendations for responding to such incidents: offering support, avoiding engagement with the aggressor, blocking the perpetrator, preserving evidence, and seeking assistance from specialists and law-enforcement authorities. In conclusion, the article underscores that cyberbullying remains a significant threat to Ukrainian youth and necessitates a comprehensive system of prevention, early detection, appropriate intervention, and effective support for victims.

Keywords: bullying, cyberspace, court decisions, cybercrime, social networks, Internet.