THE INFLUENCE OF CYBERYBULLING ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF YOUTHS IN BAYELSA STATE

This study examined at how cyberbullying affects the mental health of young people in Yenagoa. With more people using the internet, cyberbullying is becoming more common. The research is based on the idea that we learn by watching others, and it focuses on the experiences of young people who have been bullied online. The researchers sampled 75 young individuals selected for their relevant experiences. Through interviews, they uncovered various feelings like anxiety, depression, and loneliness, as victims often took hurtful comments to heart and felt embarrassed to ask for help. The results showed that culture plays a big role in how young people react to bullying. Many felt too ashamed to share what they were going through. However, having supportive friends and community members was very important in helping them cope, making the impact of cyberbullying less severe. The study also found that education and awareness programs are crucial for teaching young people how to behave online and handle such situations. In conclusion, the study stresses the need for action to help the mental health of those affected by cyberbullying while promoting a supportive environment. It suggests creating awareness programs, safe spaces for open conversations, peer support groups, and better reporting options on social media to help build a community that supports these young individuals.