Factors influencing cyberbullying among citizens: a systematic review of articles published in refereed journals from 2010 to 2023

Abstract

Purpose Cyberbullying is a visible and prominent issue in today’s society. This study aims to identify factors influencing cyberbullying, discover its consequences on society, learn strategies and practices for dealing with cyberbullying and propose a framework to control cyberbullying in an online environment. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review was applied to meet the study’s objectives as the research methodology. A total of 27 peer-reviewed journal papers covering the study’s variables were included to carry out the systematic review. Findings The findings of the study revealed that social media, advancement of technology, lack of awareness, negative use of technology and smartphones affected cyberbullying in society. The study also showed the psychological disasters of cyberbullying. Prominent psychological dangers of the cyberbullying included emotional, psychiatric, psychosomatic, mental aggression, delinquency, depression, psychological distress, frustration, isolation, violence, unhappiness, suicidal tendencies, inferiority complex, embarrassment, negative emotions, self-harming attitudes and the passions of revenge. It also provided key strategies to stop and control cyberbullying activities. Key strategies included digital literacy, social support, emotional management, strict cyber laws and effective training sessions. Originality/value The study has provided a framework to stop and control cyber bullying for social survival. The study has offered significant theoretical, social and practical implications.