CYBERBULLYING ON SOCIAL MEDIA AMONG YOUNG ADULTS: UNRAVELING ONLINE DYNAMICS.

Abstract

This study examined individual and relational predictors of cyberbully-victim involvement among young adults, focusing on social connectedness (offline, mixed offline-online, and exclusively online), parasocial relationships (PSRs) with social media influencers (SMIs), and social media addiction. Using a generalized logistic regression model, results revealed that being female and younger significantly increased the likelihood of dual-role involvement. Offline social connectedness emerged as a significant protective factor, while offline-online and exclusively online ties were not associated with cyberbully-victim status. Notably, stronger PSRs with influencers were linked to a decreased likelihood of dual-role involvement, suggesting a possible compensatory or protective role for vulnerable individuals. Social media addiction was confirmed as a strong risk factor, more than doubling the odds of cyberbully-victim involvement. These findings underscore the complex interplay between psychosocial vulnerabilities and digital relational dynamics, highlighting the need for prevention strategies that foster offline relationships, promote digital resilience, and address problematic social media use among young adults.