Cyberbullying in the digital space
In the digital age, phenomena such as bullying, cyberbullying, trolling, hating, flaming, and other forms of online aggression are becoming increasingly common. Despite the differences in terms, they share one thing — deliberate and repeated psychological pressure on a person via the internet. According to UNICEF, cyberbullying is systematic behavior aimed at intimidating, humiliating, discrediting, or harming a person using digital tools such as social networks, messengers, photos, videos, and other online instruments. It is not just “harsh comments” or failed jokes — these are repeated actions intended to cause emotional pain, undermine a sense of security, and damage reputation.
Cyberbullying manifests in various ways: from posting humiliating photos or videos without consent to spreading rumors, gossip, and false information. It can take the form of offensive messages and comments, threats, pressure, creating fake accounts to discredit someone, organized group bullying, and isolating a person within online communities. Aggressors often use trolling and provocations to exhaust the victim emotionally. The internet makes bullying constant: it can occur around the clock, as people are always online and messages can arrive at any time.
The consequences of online bullying go far beyond virtual space. It causes increased anxiety, stress, feelings of threat and insecurity, lowers self-esteem, and creates a sense of helplessness and loneliness. According to UNICEF, cyberbullying can lead to depression, anxiety disorders, reduced school or work performance, and social isolation. Many teenagers skip school or avoid social interactions out of fear of aggression, and the emotional effects can last for many years.
UNICEF statistics show the scale of the problem: more than a third of young people worldwide have experienced online bullying at least once in their lives, and one in five skipped school due to anxiety related to bullying. The Kazakhstan Kids Online study found that 9% to 21% of children in Kazakhstan have been victims or witnesses of cyberbullying, with girls experiencing it almost twice as often as boys. These figures highlight that the problem affects a significant portion of adolescents and requires systematic attention.
UNICEF recommends that those who encounter online bullying preserve evidence — screenshots, conversations, and links, as digital traces play a key role in protection. It is important to block aggressors, limit access to accounts, use profile privacy settings, and report violations through social media complaint tools. Seeking support from parents, friends, teachers, or psychologists, and involving specialists or hotlines if necessary, is crucial. It is important to remember that no one should face bullying alone: online safety is the right of every individual.
In recent years, steps have been taken in Kazakhstan to form a legal framework: in 2022, the Law “On the Rights of the Child” for the first time introduced the concepts of bullying and cyberbullying, and since 2024, administrative responsibility has been established for bullying minors — ranging from warnings to fines. However, there is still no separate comprehensive article that fully regulates cyberbullying and considers its psychological harm. Many cases are classified as “insult” or “defamation,” which does not always cover the full spectrum of online aggression. Legislation is developing but remains incomplete, so protection remains a relevant issue.
The “16 Days Without Violence” campaign is an important reason to speak openly about this problem. Cyberbullying is a form of psychological violence that is difficult to notice but causes deep harm. By discussing it, we help victims be heard, teach children and adults to recognize bullying and protect themselves, strengthen digital safety, and create a more caring and supportive community. The internet should be a space for opportunities, communication, and development, not fear or threat. Such conversations help make it safer for everyone.
Materials are taken from open sources.
Specialist of the Ridder Historical and Local Lore Museum, Pospelova L.V.