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Cyberbullying

Edward Feller, BA, MD Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

Cyberbullying or online aggression: behavior via electronic or digital media that communicates hostile or aggressive messages intended to harm or discomfort others 
  • All can be carried out throug...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Avoiding computers, cell phones, and other devices

  • Stress when receiving electronic communications

  • Avoiding conversations about computer use

  • Emotional or peer problems; feeling unsafe at...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Recommendations to physicians

    • Screening for cyberbullying should be included in adolescent mental health assessment: “Have you ever received, sent, or seen messages on the Int...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Screen for cyberbullying at medical visits. 

Patient Monitoring

  • Screen for depression, substance and alcohol abuse, suicidality, and homicidal ideation.

  • Monitor tech...

REFERENCES

1
Basile KC, Clayton HB, DeGue S, et al. Interpersonal violence victimization among high school students—Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2019. MMWR supplements. 2020;21;69(1):28.

ADDITIONAL READING

Ansary N. Cyberbullying: concepts, theories, and correlates informing evidence-based best practices for prevention. Aggress Violent Behav. 2020;50:101343. ...

CODES

ICD10

  • T74.32XA Child psychological abuse, confirmed, initial encounter

  • T74.31XA Adult psychological abuse, confirmed, initial encounter

  • T76.32XA Child psychological abuse, suspected, initial encoun...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Cyberbullying is anonymous, occurs anywhere, anytime, and with or without witnesses; thus, more difficult to protect against.

  • May coexist with traditional bullying

  • Can affect short- and ...

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