Diagnosis of cyber and non-physical bullying victimization: A lifestyles and routine activities theory approach to constructing effective preventative measures

Abstract

Cyberbullying is a global phenomenon brought by the proliferation of digital technology and social networking sites (SNS). Defined as intentional and repeated harm via technology, cyberbullying has provided youth with another medium to experience bullying victimization. The purpose of this study is to examine both cyber and non-physical bullying victimization using Cohen, Kluegel, and Land's (1981) Lifestyles and Routine Activities Theory. Data were derived from the 2013 school crime supplement of the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) for delineating the pattern of cyber and non-physical bullying victimization. This study indicates that cyber and non-physical bullying victimization have similarities and differences reflecting lifestyle and routine activity factors. Youth who had illicit access to alcohol and drugs, used alcohol or drugs at school, and had an affiliation with gang membership involving violence, were more likely to be exposed to potential offenders for both cyberbullying and non-physical bullying victimization. Moreover, while involvement in the performing arts made youth more vulnerable to victimization, youth who followed school rules and were given teacher care were less likely to be targeted. In closing, the study offers effective preventive measures against both cyber and non-physical youth bullying activities.