Voices of the Unheard: A Retrospective Examination of Young Adult Females’ Cyberbullying Victimization in Secondary School

Abstract

Using the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (TMSC) (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984, 1987) to explore resilience of adolescent victims of cyberbullying, this qualitative study offered an in depth look into the lives of young adult females who experienced cyberbullying attacks during their time in secondary school as adolescents. Through a standard qualitative descriptive study approach, four young adult females were asked to reflect upon their experiences as victims of cyberbullying in secondary school. In addition, participants were asked to identify the strategies and resources they employed in which they perceive allowed them to thrive and achieve a sense of overall wellness. Data was collected in the form of open-ended, semi-structured interviews which were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a thematic analysis and inductive process. This research may assist with the development of positive strategies that cyberbullying victims can use to ameliorate the negative effects of cyberbully attacks. In addition, such information may expand upon existing interventions as well as educate school officials and parents about ways to respond to and possibly prevent cyberbullying in the future.