Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Cyberbullying Experience and Practice Among Youths in Malaysia

Cyberbullying is a complex issue among youth, yet, while adolescent victimization is well-studied, little is known about what causes youth to perpetrate cyberbullying in Malaysia. This quantitative study examines the association of sociodemographic factors and the use of social media with cyberbullying experiences and practices among youth in Malaysia. A baseline survey, conducted from July to December 2023 as part of an intervention program, gathered data from 309 participants aged 18 to 30 via an online survey. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were conducted to determine the relationships between sociodemographic factors, social media use, and cyberbullying behaviors. Of the total participants, the mean age was 21 years, 201 (65%) were female, 241 (78%) were undergraduate students. Among them, 302 (97.7%) were aware of cyberbullying, 252 (81.5%) witnessed it, 179 (58%) experienced it, and 51 (17%) participated in it. Females had higher odds of experiencing cyberbullying than males (odds ratio (OR), 2.67; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.64–4.33), while males were more likely to engage in cyberbullying. Students and unemployed individuals had higher risks of experiencing cyberbullying. Heavy social media users (8 + hours/day) were at increased risk (OR, 16.2; 95% CI, 5.31–49.4), with Facebook use linked to higher cyberbullying exposure. There is a need for targeted interventions and policies to safeguard females and students to support their well-being. Limiting social media usage may serve as a preventive measure. Further longitudinal research to deepen understanding and collaboration among researchers, educators, and policymakers is crucial to creating safer digital environments for youth.