A Case Study on Cyberbullying among Senior High School Students

Abstract

Cyberbullying, which predominantly occurs on private social media platforms, often remains concealed from school authorities due to its covert nature and the reluctance of victims to report incidents. This issue has become increasingly concerning for senior high school students, who frequently face emotional, social, and academic challenges as a result of online harassment. To explore these experiences in depth, this study employs a qualitative case study design focusing on victims of cyberbullying within a selected educational institution. Participants were purposively sampled, and data were gathered through in-depth interviews to capture their personal accounts and perceptions. Data analysis followed Yin’s six-stage approach, consisting of planning, design, preparation, data collection, analysis, and sharing of findings. Several significant themes emerged from the analysis, including emotional withdrawal, shame, and social isolation. These themes highlight the profound impact of cyberbullying on students’ emotional well-being and interpersonal relationships. Many participants described feelings of vulnerability and distress, which often extended into their academic performance and overall school engagement. The study concludes that cyberbullying remains a covert yet serious concern that requires sustained and targeted intervention. Given its hidden nature, traditional disciplinary approaches are often insufficient. Therefore, it is recommended that schools implement comprehensive awareness programs, strengthen student support systems, and cultivate a culture of empathy, openness, and digital responsibility. Such measures are essential to effectively prevent, identify, and address cyberbullying, ultimately fostering a safer and more supportive learning environment for all students.