International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE)
Vol 15, No 4: August 2026

Psychosocial factors of cyberbullying experienced by Malaysian public university undergraduates

Siti Nurfathin Idris (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Mastura Mahfar (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Faizah Mohd Fakhruddin (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Azlina Mohd Kosnin (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Aslan Amat Senin (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Halimah Mohd Yusof (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Nur Azmina Paslan (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Aug 2026

Abstract

Cyberbullying has emerged as a critical issue among university students in Malaysia, driven by the widespread use of digital technologies and associated with serious psychological consequences. Despite its increasing prevalence, limited research has explored how psychosocial factors shape cyberbullying victimization within the Malaysian higher education context. This study addresses this gap by exploring the psychosocial factors influencing cyberbullying victimization among university students in Malaysia. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving five university students who had experienced cyberbullying. Data was collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that cyberbullying victimization is influenced by an interplay of psychological and social factors. Psychological factors include passive behavior, low self-esteem, irrational beliefs and personality traits, while social factors encompass peer relationships, parenting styles, social media engagement, and online gaming environments. This study suggests that cyberbullying is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by both individual vulnerabilities and environmental influences. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive, psychosocial-based interventions to support students’ wellbeing and promote safer digital environments in higher education institutions.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJERE

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE) is an interdisciplinary publication of original research and writing on education which publishes papers to international audiences of educational researchers. The IJERE aims to provide a forum for scholarly understanding of ...