Old Wine, New Bottle? Comparing Interpersonal Bullying and Cyberbullying Victimization

an article by Allison Ann Payne (Villanova University PA, USA) and Kirsten L. Hutzell (Lycoming College, Williamsport, PA, USA) published in Youth & Society Volume 49 Issue 8 (November 2017)

Abstract

This study uses a large nationally representative sample to compare and contrast interpersonal bullying and cyberbullying by asking the following questions:

• How does the prevalence of cyberbullying victimization compare with the prevalence of interpersonal bullying victimization?
• How does the relationship between demographic predictors and cyberbullying victimization compare with the relationship between these predictors and interpersonal bullying victimization? and
• How does the relationship between cyberbullying victimization and avoidance behaviors compare with the relationship between interpersonal bullying victimization and avoidance behaviors?

Findings demonstrate that interpersonal bullying victimization is far more prevalent than cyberbullying victimization.

Results also illustrate differences in the relationships between demographics and bullying victimization.

Finally, students who are a victim of either form of bullying are more likely to engage in school avoidance behaviors. These results highlight the need for comprehensive and preventive programs that can reduce the negative consequences of bullying victimization.

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