Cyberbullying victimization predicts substance use and mental health problems in adolescents: data from a large-scale epidemiological investigation

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the potential association of cyberbullying victimization (CyVic) on substance use and mental health-related behaviors among Brazilian adolescents, using data derived from the National Survey of School Health (PeNSE).

Method: The sample comprised 146,536 adolescents aged up to 17 years, who were selected through probabilistic and representative sampling. Participants were categorized into two groups: cyber-victim group (CYB), comprising those who reported experiencing threats, offense, or humiliation on social media platforms or messaging apps 30 days before the survey, and non-cybervictim group (nCYB).

Results: Of the participants, 13.3% were classified in the CYB group, with the majority being girls (61.9%) compared to boys (38.1%). The CYB group showed a significantly higher prevalence of substance use, with 22% of these youths reporting illicit drug use compared with 11% in the nCYB group. The CYB group also exhibited significant alcohol and tobacco consumption, as well as the initiation of these substances at a younger average age compared to the nCYB group. Sadness, helplessness, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts were significantly higher in the CYB group. The CYB group also reported lower parental understanding and a higher incidence of aggression, sexual abuse, and episodes of violence among peers and family members.

Conclusion: The study results revealed the negative consequences of CyVic, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to address this issue and promote adolescent mental health.

Keywords: adolescents; cyberbullying; emotional issues; mental health; risky behaviors.