The crime of cyberbullying and its relationship to addiction to social networking sites: A study at the law college Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between cyberbullying and social media addiction among law students at Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd University in the Eastern Province. This study centred on Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University's student population, sought to decipher this connection, emphasizing anonymity, harassment, molestation, and violence. The research identified a pronounced correlation between cyberbullying and the outlined variables by utilizing a robust statistical framework—comprising t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and ANOVA. Anonymity, though often lauded for protecting online privacy, was flagged as a potential enabler for such harmful behaviours. Gender-wise, the study revealed an intriguing uniformity in internet addiction patterns, with no significant variations manifesting between male and female students. Similarly, academic levels did not substantially influence addiction tendencies. These findings accentuate the nuanced digital landscape students navigate today, suggesting a pressing need for targeted interventions and educational campaigns. As cyberbullying and internet addiction become increasingly prevalent, understanding their interplay becomes crucial for fostering a safer online environment.

Keywords

• Crime
• Cyberbullying
• Addiction
• Social networking sites
• Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University