Prevalence, Contributing Factors, and Implications of Cyberbullying: A Conceptual Review

Abstract

Bullying is one of the most prevalent issues facing global education, affecting students from various cultures and social backgrounds. Despite the abundant literature on anti-bullying programs generated over several decades, aggressive behavior persists as a barrier to learning and mental well-being. Moreover, the advent of cyberbullying in conjunction with changes in learning environments has added another layer of complexity to peer relations and victimhood. Although existing studies provide a wide range of empirical information, many of them focus on either the factors contributing to aggression, its prevalence rates, or negative effects on the victims in isolation. To overcome theoretical limitations of prior research, the current integrative literature review will analyze existing literature on the topic using the same ecological framework. Specifically, drawing on studies in education, psychology, sociology, and public health, we will explore how personal traits, family, peer groups, schools, and broader cultural factors influence bullying. Additionally, we will consider the implications of bullying for the educational process for victims, bullies, and bystanders, and evaluate the effectiveness of school-based strategies currently in use.