Cyberbullying Experiences And Reactions Among University Students In Malaysia

Abstract

Cyberbullying is not uncommon or unheard of with the vast
advancement of technology and the popularity of social media
engagement. Previous studies do show in contrast to traditional
bullying, cyberbullying is as detrimental (if not worse) towards one’s
social being. However, the types of cyberbullying experienced as well
as mode of managing cyberbullies do differ across locality. Hence,
this current study aimed to explore the types of cyberbullying
experienced as well as the reaction of Malaysian students towards
cyberbullies. This study employed semi-structured interview with 30
university students, who have social media accounts and are currently
residing in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Based on the data collected, it was
found that the majority (more than 80%) of the respondents
experienced flaming and stalking types of cyberbullying. Such
experience they claimed caused emotional, social and psychological
distress. The action taken upon experiencing cyberbullying as well as
emotional reaction that they experienced do differ across the type of
bully experienced. These effects can be argued to be exacerbated due
to the fact that a sizeable number of respondents chose to keep
bullying experience to themselves instead of sharing with others,
especially adults. In terms of their reaction towards the perpetrator or
the situation, it was found that both active and passive reactions have
been employed. The details of the experiences as well as reactions are
further discussed in this paper.

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