CYBERBULLYING AND VICTIMIZATION IN ADOLESCENTS WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER: THE ROLE OF DIGITAL RISK FACTORS

Background: This study aims to determine the prevalence of cyberbullying and cybervictimization among adolescents diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It also examines the sociodemographic, psychiatric, and digital variables associated with these behaviors. Methods: A total of 107 adolescents diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder participated in the study. Data were collected using a researcher-developed interview form, the Turgay DSM-IV-Based Child and Adolescent Behavior Disorders Screening and Rating Scale, the Young Internet Addiction Scale, and the Revised Cyber Bullying Inventory. Cyberbullying and cybervictimization statuses were assessed using the Revised Cyberbullying Inventory. Variables found to be significant in bivariate analyses were further analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Problematic internet use emerged as the strongest predictor of both cyberbullying and cybervictimization. Using the internet for downloading programs was also a significant predictor for both. Additionally, maternal education level significantly predicted cybervictimization, while low academic achievement was a significant predictor of cyberbullying. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need to focus on the quality of online behaviors among adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. These individuals may be particularly vulnerable to both perpetrating and experiencing cyberbullying due to problematic internet use and engagement in technically demanding online activities. Evaluating digital habits based on content and function is crucial for the prevention of cyberbullying and cybervictimization.