The Impact of Cyberbullying on Female University Students of Lahore

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence, nature, and consequences of cyberbullying among female university students in Lahore, a population increasingly exposed to digital communication and its associated risks. With expanding social media use, students encounter harassment in the form of hurtful comments (23%), impersonation (21.5%), rumor-spreading (18.3%), non-consensual image sharing (15.5%), and threats (10%). The purpose of the study was to examine how such experiences influence students’ emotional wellbeing, social functioning, and academic performance, and to explore reporting behaviors alongside institutional responses. Grounded in Social Learning Theory and Stress and Coping Theory, the research explains how online behaviors are modeled and how victims psychologically appraise and respond to cyberbullying stressors. A quantitative survey design was employed, using purposive sampling to collect data from 400 female students across public and private universities. Findings revealed that 47.3% had experienced cyberbullying, with 21.3% reporting repeated victimization. Emotional impacts were notable: 25.3% felt anxious or stressed, 15.6% reported lowered self-esteem, and 10.3% experienced sleep disturbances or depressive symptoms. Academically, a smaller yet meaningful proportion (9.3%) agreed that their concentration and grades were affected. Despite these impacts, 43.8% never reported their experiences, and 56% stated their institutions provided no awareness sessions. The study recommends establishing confidential reporting systems, strengthening mental-health services, enforcing digital safety policies, and integrating cyber-ethics education into university programs to safeguard female students’ wellbeing.