Determination of Cyber Victimization and Bullying Levels and Factors Affecting Them Among Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: This study aimed to assess the levels of cyberbullying and cyber victimization among nursing students and to identify the variables that may influence these phenomena. Material and Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 276 nursing students from a nursing faculty of a state university between May and June 2023. The data were analyzed using the descriptive statistics, independent groups t-test and one-way ANOVA test. Results: The participants' average age was 20.48 ± 1.47 years, with 94.2% being female. Cyberbullying and cyber victimization average scores were 25.84 ± 4.14 and 29.53 ± 6.70, respectively. Significant differences were found in cyber victimization scores based on age and class level, with 18-year-old students and higher-class levels reporting higher victimization (p < 0.05). Additionally, students who knew someone who engaged in, or experienced cyberbullying had higher cyberbullying and cyber victimization scores. No significant differences were observed based on gender or weekly internet usage. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to prevent cyberbullying and support victims among nursing students. These interventions could include educational programs to raise awareness, support services for victims, and strategies to reduce the normalization of cyberbullying behaviors. Further research is needed to explore the complex relationships between demographic factors and cyberbullying behaviors.