A Sociological Study on Impact on Cyberbullying Among SRM College Youth

International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 73 A Sociological Study on Impact on Cyberbullying Among SRM College Youth Dr. K. Pushpam School of Law, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India  +91 96880 52676 | ✉ [email protected] Navya Chandra P. D. School of Law, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India  +91 93425 51108 | ✉ [email protected] Ganaga Thara M. School of Law, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India  +91 63740 60090 | ✉ [email protected] ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT ©2025 RS Publication Paper ID: IJRMF68DA3F80C5D76 Received: 2025-09-07 Published: 2025-10-07 DOI: https://dx.doi.org /10.5281/zenodo.17 288732 Page No: 73-85 In the modern digital era, cyberbullying has risen as a serious social problem, with adolescents and young adults being the most vulnerable groups. Unlike traditional forms of bullying, it takes place in virtual spaces—such as social networking sites, chat applications, and online communities—where individuals may be subjected to insults, threats, or embarrassing content intended to cause harm. This study examines the prevalence, forms, and consequences of cyberbullying, with a focus on its psychological, emotional, and social impact on youth. Using a sample of 100 respondents, the study applies both quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze patterns of victimization and coping strategies. Findings highlight that cyberbullying not only causes emotional distress but also weakens social relationships and academic performance. The research stresses the importance of awareness, parental guidance, and institutional interventions to combat this growing issue. Keywords: Impact on youth, Digital harassment, Online abuse, Cyber bullying Online safety awareness, Copying mechanism, Internet Misuse. International Journal of Research in Management Fields Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Cite This Paper : Dr. K.Pushpam, Navya chandra and Ganaga Thara .M (2025). "A Sociological Study on Impact on Cyberbullying Among SRM College Youth". INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MANAGEMENT FIELDS (IJRMF), vol. 9, no. 5, 2025, pp. 73-85. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17288732 International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 74 Introduction The internet has become an important part of daily life, mainly for young people who use it for learning. While digital platform has made it easier to connect with friends and connect with them most serious issue in internet is cyber bullying. Cyber bullying affects young people in many ways. It leads to stress and panic conditions; it focus on understanding how cyber bullying impact the lives of students. This research leads to provide suggestion that can help to create a safer world. Statement of the Problem As digital communication continues to expand, cyberbullying has emerged as a widespread yet often unseen social issue. Victims often suffer silently due to fear, stigma, or lack of awareness. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen anytime and spread widely, leaving victims vulnerable. This study addresses the urgent need to explore how cyberbullying shapes youth experiences, influences their mental health, and impacts social relationships. In recent times, the swift growth of digital technology and the increasing popularity of social media have reshaped how young people interact, acquire knowledge, and build social connections. Although these platforms offer vast opportunities for communication and information exchange, they have also opened the door to harmful behaviors, with cyberbullying standing out as one of the most concerning issues. Cyberbullying can be defined as the intentional use of digital platforms—such as social networks, messaging services, online communities, and gaming environments—to harass, intimidate, threaten, or embarrass others. Unlike conventional bullying, it transcends physical spaces and time limits, making its impact more persistent and far-reaching; it can occur at any hour, reach a potentially limitless audience, and often leave a permanent digital trace, making it especially invasive and damaging. Individuals targeted by cyberbullying frequently suffer from various emotional and psychological difficulties, such as stress, sadness, diminished self-confidence, and a sense of loneliness. Many students suffer in silence due to fear of retaliation, social stigma, or a lack of understanding and awareness about available support mechanisms. Furthermore, cyberbullying can strain social relationships, disrupt academic performance, and even lead to extreme consequences such as self-harm or suicidal tendencies. Despite the increasing prevalence of this issue, there is limited research that thoroughly examines the multiple dimensions of cyberbullying—its causes, manifestations, psychological impacts, and International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 75 coping mechanisms—especially within the context of youth in contemporary society. This research aims to fill this important gap by exploring the lived experiences of young people who have been impacted by cyberbullying. It aims to explore how cyberbullying influences their mental health, social interactions, and overall well-being. By doing so, the study intends to shed light on the social and emotional realities faced by victims, understand the patterns and factors contributing to cyberbullying, and provide insights into preventive measures and support systems. In essence, this research emphasizes the urgency of acknowledging cyberbullying as a significant social problem and seeks to inform educators, parents, policymakers, and mental health professionals about strategies to mitigate its impact on vulnerable youth populations. Objectives  To study the prevalence of cyberbullying among youth.  To examine the mental, emotional, and social impacts caused by cyberbullying.  To identify coping mechanisms adopted by victims of cyberbullying.  To study how families, peer groups, and institutions contribute to preventing and managing cyberbullying.  To suggest preventive and corrective measures for reducing cyberbullying. Review of the Study Kowalski & Limber (2013) highlighted that cyberbullying victims face higher risks of depression and anxiety. Hinduja & Patchin (2015) observed that cyberbullying leads to poor academic performance and increased absenteeism. Smith et al. (2008) argued that anonymity in online spaces increases the intensity of bullying behavior. Studies have shown that peer support and parental guidance reduce the negative effects of cyberbullying. Hinduja and Patchin (2015) observed that cyberbullying is strongly associated with poor academic performance, increased absenteeism, and disengagement from school activities. The study findings suggested that the stress and emotional turmoil caused by cyberbullying can disrupt concentration, motivation, and overall educational outcomes. Similarly, Smith et al. (2008) argued that the anonymity offered by online platforms amplifies the intensity and frequency of bullying behaviors, as perpetrators often feel a International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 76 sense of impunity and detachment from the consequences of their actions. Several studies have also explored the protective factors that mitigate the effects of cyberbullying. Research indicates that strong peer support networks and active parental guidance play a crucial role in reducing the emotional and social consequences for victims. For instance, a study by Patchin and Hinduja (2010) found that adolescents who reported open communication with parents or guardians were more likely to cope effectively with cyberbullying incidents, develop resilience, and seek help when needed. Moreover, recent studies have examined the influence of social media platforms and digital literacy on cyberbullying dynamics. Tokunaga (2010) noted that excessive screen time and unmonitored online activity increase the likelihood of exposure to cyberbullying, whereas digital education programs aimed at fostering empathy, responsible online behavior, and awareness of reporting mechanisms can significantly reduce victimization. Similarly, Li (2007) highlighted the long-term social consequences of cyberbullying, including difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy relationships, social withdrawal, and diminished self-esteem. Cross-cultural research has further revealed that the prevalence and impact of cyberbullying vary depending on sociocultural contexts, with factors such as gender norms, community awareness, and access to technology influencing both the incidence of bullying and the coping strategies adopted by victims (Perren et al., 2010). These studies collectively emphasize that cyberbullying is a complex social issue, influenced by psychological, social, and technological factors, and that effective interventions require a multidimensional approach involving schools, families, and online platforms. Research Gap While much research has examined cyberbullying in Western contexts, there is limited sociological investigation in the Indian context focusing on how family, peer groups, and institutions shape responses to cyberbullying. This study fills that gap by exploring youth experiences in urban and semi-urban India. In India, the sociocultural environment is unique, shaped by factors such as joint family systems, close-knit communities, social hierarchies, and varying levels of awareness about digital safety. These factors can influence both the prevalence of cyberbullying and the strategies that youth use to cope with it. For example, parental involvement, peer support, International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 77 and school policies may differ substantially between urban and semi-urban areas, affecting the ways victims seek help or respond to harassment. Additionally, there is limited empirical research on how Indian youth perceive cyberbullying, their awareness of reporting mechanisms, and the social stigma attached to victimization. Few studies have investigated how gender, socio-economic status, and digital literacy intersect to shape experiences of online harassment. This lack of contextualized knowledge makes it difficult for policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals to design effective prevention programs and support systems tailored to Indian youth. By focusing on youth experiences in both urban and semi-urban Indian settings, this study addresses this research gap, providing insight into how social structures, peer interactions, and institutional responses influence the impact of cyberbullying. It contributes to a deeper understanding of the sociological dimensions of cyberbullying in India and aims to inform culturally relevant strategies to mitigate its negative effects on mental health, social relationships, and academic performance. Area of the Study The study is conducted in urban and semi-urban areas of Chennai, covering school and college-going youth. This study is conducted in and around SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Chennai, focusing on both urban and semi-urban settings. The research targets school and college students to understand their experiences with cyberbullying across different educational levels. Including both urban and semi-urban areas allows the study to capture variations in digital access, awareness of online safety, and social support systems among youth. SRMIST and its affiliated institutions serve as the central focus because of their large and diverse student population, who actively use digital platforms for learning, communication, and social interaction. In addition, nearby semi-urban schools and colleges are included to provide a comparative perspective, highlighting how socioeconomic background, parental supervision, and peer influence shape experiences of cyberbullying. By focusing on this issue, the research seeks to develop an in-depth understanding of the ways students in Chennai experience, interpret, and cope with cyberbullying. The International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 78 findings are expected to provide useful insights for educators, parents, and administrators at SRMIST and other institutions, helping to develop strategies for prevention, awareness, and support for affected youth. Selection of Sample Sample Size: 19respondents. Sampling Technique: Stratified random sampling, ensuring representation across age (13– 22 years), gender, and educational background. Criteria: Respondents must have access to digital devices and online platforms The study involves a total of 19 respondents selected to represent the target population of school and college-going youth. A stratified random sampling method is used to ensure balanced representation across different age groups (13–22 years), gender, and educational levels. This approach allows for a more accurate understanding of how cyberbullying affects diverse segments of the youth population. Participants are selected based on the criterion that they have regular access to digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers, and actively use online platforms for social, educational, or recreational purposes. This ensures that the respondents are exposed to digital environments where cyberbullying can occur, making their experiences relevant for the study. Through the use of stratified random sampling and well-defined selection criteria, this study seeks to gather diverse perspectives on cyberbullying while ensuring the accuracy and trustworthiness of the collected data. Definitions and Terms Used in the Study Cyberbullying: The act of using online platforms and digital technologies to intimidate, threaten, or embarrass others. Victimization: The experience of being subjected to harassment, threats, or harmful behavior through cyberbullying. Perpetrator: The individual or group engaging in cyberbullying. Social Relationships: Interaction and trust among peers, family, and community. Hypothesis  Cyberbullying significantly affects the mental health and academic performance of International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 79 victims.  Victims of cyberbullying are more likely to experience social withdrawal.  Support from peers and family reduces the negative impact of cyberbullying.  Cyberbullying has a significant negative impact on the mental health of victims, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress.  Students who experience cyberbullying are more likely to show a decline in academic performance and school engagement.  Victims of cyberbullying tend to withdraw from social interactions and exhibit reduced participation in peer activities.  Strong support from family members, teachers, and peers helps mitigate the emotional and social consequences of cyberbullying.  Awareness of reporting mechanisms and digital safety practices reduces the frequency and intensity of cyberbullying experiences.  The prevalence and effects of cyberbullying differ between urban and semi-urban students due to variations in access to technology, parental supervision, and social environment.  Gender may influence the nature and impact of cyberbullying, with male and female students potentially experiencing different forms of online harassment and coping differently. Sources of Data Primary Data: Questionnaires and structured interviews with respondents. Secondary Data: Journals, research articles, reports by NGOs, and government publications on cyber safety. This study utilizes both primary and secondary sources of data to ensure a comprehensive understanding of cyberbullying among youth. Primary Data: Primary data is collected directly from the respondents through structured questionnaires and interviews. The questionnaires are designed to gather information on students’ experiences with cyberbullying, its emotional and academic impact, coping strategies, and the level of support received from family, peers, and educational institutions. Structured interviews provide a deeper insight into individual experiences, allowing participants to share personal narratives, perceptions, and challenges International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 80 faced in digital environments. This firsthand data helps in capturing authentic and contextspecific information. Secondary Data: Secondary data is gathered from existing sources such as academic journals, research studies, books, reports by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and government publications related to cyberbullying, online safety, and digital behavior among youth. These sources provide a theoretical framework, statistical information, and a broader perspective on the prevalence, causes, and consequences of cyberbullying. Additionally, online resources, educational websites, and reports from digital safety initiatives are consulted to supplement primary data and validate findings. By utilizing both primary and secondary sources, the research seeks to adopt a balanced approach, incorporating firsthand data alongside existing studies to strengthen the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the findings. Method of Study Quantitative: Surveys with 19 respondents to analyze prevalence and patterns. Qualitative: In-depth interviews with 19 respondents to capture personal experiences. Tools Google Forms, interview guides, and observation checklists. This study uses a mixed-methods design, integrating quantitative and qualitative methods to examine cyberbullying among young individuals. Quantitative Method: The quantitative aspect of the study involves structured surveys conducted with 19 respondents selected through stratified random sampling. The surveys are designed to assess how common cyberbullying is, how often it occurs, and the different forms it takes among students. They also examine the effects of cyberbullying on psychological wellbeing, academic achievement, and social interactions. The collected data are analyzed using statistical techniques to uncover trends, patterns, and correlations within the study group. Qualitative Method: To gain a deeper understanding of personal experiences, qualitative methods are incorporated. In-depth interviews are conducted with 19 respondents who have faced cyberbullying. These interviews explore their emotional and social experiences, coping strategies, and the role of family, peers, and institutions in providing support. This approach allows the study to capture detailed narratives and insights that cannot be obtained through surveys alone. International Journal of Research in Management Fields ISSN (P) 2577-1876 (O) 2577-4274 Available online on http://rspublication.com/IJRMF/IJRMF.html Volume 9, Number 5 -2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288732 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicatio[email protected] 81 Tools Used: The study uses several tools to collect accurate and comprehensive data. Google Forms is employed to distribute and collect survey responses efficiently. Structured interview guides help steer the discussion during interviews, ensuring that important topics are addressed while giving participants the freedom to express their experiences openly. Observation checklists are also utilized during interactions to note behaviors, responses, and social interactions that may provide additional context. By combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, this study provides both measurable data and in-depth understanding. Surveys offer a broad overview of cyberbullying patterns, while interviews and observations provide insight into the lived experiences of youth, ensuring a holistic understanding of the issue. Data analysis and Interpretation Table 1: Prevalence of Cyberbullying Response No. of Respondent Percentage (%) Experienced cyberbullying 7 60 Never experienced 12 40 Total 19 100 Sources: Primary data Out of the total respondents selected for the stud, 60 per cent of respondents reported experiencing cyberbullying followed by 40 per cent of them have not faced it. It concludes that a greater number of them stated that experienced cyber bullying. Table 2: Forms of Cyberbullying Form of Cyberbullying No. of Respondent Percentage Abusive messages 8 40 Online rumors 6 30 Exclusion from groups 4 20 Impersonation 2 10 Total 19 100 Sources: Primary data Total respondents selected for the study, respondents faced the various forms cyberbullying 40 per cent of them Abusive messages were the most common form, followed by online rumors (30per cent ),