Long-term effects of cyberbullying victimisation on child and adolescent mental health

This meta-analysis examined 27 longitudinal studies published from 2010–21. While the overall association was weak, cyberbullying victimisation was linked to an increased risk of specific mental health challenges, particularly depression and anxiety. In studies that had samples with more males and studies published more recently (between 2010–21), the impact of cyberbullying on mental health was found to be larger among older adolescents. Practitioners should consider mental health impacts and provide support when cyberbullying is disclosed.

Why is this important?

• Cyberbullying victimisation is a frequent concern for children and adolescents.
• Evidence indicates that cyberbullying victimisation can negatively impact child and adolescent mental health. However, rigorous reviews of the evidence are needed to determine if cyberbullying victimisation causes mental health challenges.

What did they do?

• The authors conducted a meta-analysis of 27 longitudinal studies published from 2010 to 2021.
• The combined sample across all included studies was 27,133 children and adolescents aged from 8 to 19 years.

What did they find?

• While the overall association was weak, cyberbullying victimisation was linked to an increased risk of specific mental health challenges, particularly depression and anxiety.
• The association of cyberbullying with mental health challenges was stronger among older adolescents and in studies that had samples with more males.
• The impact of cyberbullying on mental health was found to be larger in studies that were published more recently (in the time period 2010–21).

What does this mean for practice?

• Practitioners should be aware that cyberbullying victimisation can negatively impact the mental health of children and adolescents, particularly older adolescents and males.
• When a child or adolescent discloses experiences of cyberbullying victimisation, practitioners should discuss the potential impacts on mental health with the child or adolescent (and their family). They should refer to or provide mental health support where needed.

This summary is one of the child mental health research highlights for April 2026, prepared by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS).