Bystander Responses on Online Homophobic Bullying Among Adolescents and Youth: A Scoping Review

Research shows online homophobia is a significant concern for LGBTQ+ adolescents and youth globally, with bystanders being recognized as important in bullying situations. However, there is a lack of literature on the role of bystanders in preventing online homophobic bullying, especially among adolescents and youth. The current scoping review aims to review existing peer-reviewed articles and gray literature from January 2000 to June 2025 that focus on the role of bystanders and their responses in online homophobic bullying among adolescents and youth (aged 11 to 25 years). Nine Electronic databases were searched (i.e. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycARTICLES, Academic Search Complete, ERIC, MEDLINE, & PsycINFO) to identify relevant articles. The findings from the review demonstrate that adolescents who witness online homophobic bullying often perceive these actions as potentially normal peer behavior. The findings stress the importance of developing new intervention strategies, revising outdated homophobic bullying measurement scales, and encouraging more qualitative, mixed-method, and intersectional studies on this topic. The review highlights the need for structured programs that promote constructive bystander responses dedicated to dealing with online homophobic bullying.