New Research Identifies Three Genuine Factors Behind Cyberbullying among Young Adults

A recent study published in PLOS ONE uncovers the underlying factors contributing to the prevalence of cyberbullying among young adults. The study identifies three key factors that contribute to demeaning and harmful online behaviors:

1. Impulsivity
2. A pursuit of online popularity
3. Limited empathy

According to Felipe Soares, the lead author of the study and a Senior Lecturer in Communications and Media at the London College of Communication, University of the Arts London, “We expected that low self-esteem and online disinhibition (saying or doing things online that you would not typically say or do during face-to-face interactions) would be associated with online antisocial behavior. In addition to these two factors, we also expected that other motivations for cyber-aggression would play an important role, particularly rage and revenge.”

Contrary to previous research, which linked cyberbullying to factors such as low self-esteem, perceived anonymity, anger, and a desire for revenge, Soares’s study involving 359 Canadian young adults revealed distinct motivations for cyberbullying, primarily driven by what researchers have termed “recreation” and “reward.”

Soares explains, “Recreation pertains to impulsive antisocial acts, whereas reward relates to more calculated and premeditated acts that may evolve over time. Young individuals who partake in antisocial behavior online may be driven by a desire for excitement and the pursuit of positive emotions or social status among their peers.”

The study also found that a lack of cognitive empathy is another reason why cyberbullying is so common among young adults. Based on participants’ responses, researchers suggested that those who engage in antisocial behaviors online often struggle to empathize with the emotions of others, especially their victims.

These findings provide valuable insights that can guide policymakers, governments, parents, social media companies, and mental health professionals in their efforts to foster inclusive and supportive online environments for all individuals.

Here are some strategies to make social media safer for expressing opinions, comments, and thoughts:

• Create friction prior to posting: Asking social media users to think about their content before posting has been shown to increase awareness and build empathy towards the target. For instance, an experiment on Twitter revealed that asking people to review their message before posting something offensive led many users to rewrite their messages in a more polite manner or refrain from posting them altogether.
• Utilize advanced machine learning: Social media companies can employ AI-based language models to identify inappropriate comments or posts. By flagging potentially toxic content, users are prompted to reconsider what they are about to post. However, implementing these measures can be complex.
• Develop psychological interventions: It is crucial to raise awareness among young adults engaging in online antisocial behavior about the negative consequences their actions can have on their victims.

Conclusion

Cyberbullying is a pervasive issue that requires attention to improve the health and safety of society. Understanding the motivations behind young adults’ engagement in online behaviors that cause harm or hurt is the first step in addressing this problem. With the growing body of scientific knowledge, it is imperative that we test and implement new ways to promote positive online behaviors while discouraging antisocial behaviors.

For a full interview with Felipe Soares discussing his new research on cyberbullying, visit: Why do some young adults turn into cyberbullies?