Adolescents Experiences of Cyberbullying and Psychological Well-Being A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

Adolescents’ increasing reliance on digital communication has created new opportunities for social interaction while simultaneously exposing young people to cyberbullying that may affect emotional functioning, interpersonal relationships, and psychological well-being. This study aims to explore adolescents’ experiences of cyberbullying, examine its perceived psychological consequences, and understand how social support and resilience contribute to coping with digitally mediated victimization. A qualitative case study approach was employed to obtain an in-depth understanding of adolescents’ experiences within their social, educational, familial, and digital contexts. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews, supported by relevant documentation when ethically appropriate, and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and meanings across participants’ experiences. The findings indicate that cyberbullying may be experienced through humiliation, social exclusion, threats, public exposure, and persistent digital harassment, with psychological consequences involving anxiety, fear, shame, loneliness, reduced self-confidence, and diminished psychological well-being. Participants’ coping processes were associated with family support, peer support, teacher support, avoidance, resilience, and help-seeking. Social support appeared to provide emotional reassurance and opportunities for disclosure, while resilience facilitated adaptation and reconstruction of psychological confidence following adverse experiences. The study highlights the importance of integrated psychological interventions involving adolescents, families, peers, teachers, schools, and mental health professionals to promote psychological well-being, strengthen resilience, and establish safer digital environments for adolescents.