THE SILENCING EFFECT: INVESTIGATING THE PREVALENCE OF CYBERBULLYING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES ON SELF EXPRESSION. A STUDY OF JOSEPH AYO BABALOLA UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATES

ABSTRACT In the digital age, cyberbullying has emerged as a critical concern, particularly among young adults who rely heavily on social media and online platforms for academic and social interaction. This study investigates the prevalence of cyberbullying and its consequences on self-expression among undergraduates of Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU). The research employed survey research design of quantitative approach using structured questionnaires to gather data from a sample of JABU undergraduates. The study is grounded on, agenda-setting, spiral of silence and media ecology theory. Findings reveal a high prevalence of cyberbullying, with many students reporting experiences of harassment, exclusion, impersonation, and online threats. These experiences were found to significantly affect students' confidence, mental health, academic performance, and willingness to express themselves freely online and offline. The study also explored the various coping strategies adopted by victims, including avoidance, digital withdrawal, and reliance on peer support. The results underscore the urgent need for institutional intervention, awareness campaigns, and supportive structures to combat the silencing effects of cyberbullying. This study contributes to the broader understanding of the intersection between digital abuse and personal expression within higher education contexts and offers a foundation for future policy development and research.