Relationship Between Peer Victimization, Cyberbullying, and Suicide in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Two observers independently coded the effect sizes from the articles. Data were pooled using a random effects model. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES This study focused on suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Peer victimization was hypothesized to be related to suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. RESULTS Peer victimization was found to be related to both suicidal ideation (odds ratio, 2.23 [95% CI, 2.10-2.37]) and suicide attempts (2.55 [1.95 -3.34]) among children and adolescents. Analyses indicated that these results were not attributable to publication bias. Results were not moderated by sex, age, or study quality. Cyberbullying was more strongly related to suicidal ideation compared with traditional bullying. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Peer victimization is a risk factor for child and adolescent suicidal ideation and attempts. Schools should use evidence-based practices to reduce bullying.

The Impact of Low Self-Control on Online Harassment: Interaction with Opportunity.

“…While generally relegated to the lower tier of offenses, often misdemeanors, the psychological impact where a child is the target of the online harassment may be significant . In some cases, this has led to suicide among volatile and confused youth (Van Geel et al, 2014).…”

The neuroscience and context of adolescent depression

“…Peer victimisation is related to both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts (61) and cyber-bullying is more strongly linked than traditional bullying to emotional distress and suicidal ideas (61). Between 20% and 40% of American children and adolescents have been victims of cyber-bullying, with females and sexual minorities facing a higher risk (62).…”

“…Between 20% and 40% of American children and adolescents have been victims of cyber-bullying, with females and sexual minorities facing a higher risk (62). Social media, such as Facebook, creates high incentives for adolescents to grow extensive online networks and this increases the risks of exploitation and amplification of aggressive behaviour (61). These mechanisms increase risk and susceptibility to peer victimisation and social rejection, which are among the strongest proximal risk factors for depression (63).…”

The Relationship between Cyberbullying Victimization and Depression: The Moderating Effects of Gender and Age

“…However, unlike traditional bullying, there is evidence that perpetrators of cyberbullying also experience symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts [6], [7].…”