Cyberbullying against women in digital environments examining manifestations, risk factors, and institutional responses

Cyberbullying against women constitutes one of the most widespread forms of digital violence, manifesting through sexual harassment, non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, threats of physical or sexual aggression, defamation campaigns, and persistent offensive communications. This study conducts a systematic review based on PRISMA 2020, analyzing 31 studies published between 2015 and 2025. The review identifies key risk factors, including gender, age, socioeconomic status, time spent online, family environment, sexual orientation, and prior victimization experiences. These factors interact with contextual conditions such as patriarchal culture, school dynamics, and institutional barriers, which exacerbate women’s vulnerability. Quantitative synthesis shows that online harassment (87%) and threats (65%) are the most common forms, mainly occurring on social media (74%) and messaging applications (48%). The most reported impacts include depression and anxiety (71%), emotional distress (61%), and social withdrawal (42%), with suicidal ideation present in 16% of cases. Institutional responses were less consistent, with legal reforms (55%), educational programs (45%), and psychosocial support (29%), though only 13% of studies assessed their effectiveness. The analysis also systematizes institutional responses, highlighting three predominant approaches: legal reforms aimed at regulating digital violence; educational and school-based initiatives that integrate digital literacy and empathy training; and psychosocial and community support strategies involving family, teachers, and peer networks. However, significant gaps remain in coverage and effectiveness, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as female journalists, gamers, and women in public life. Two main findings emerge: (1) social media and instant messaging platforms are the primary environments where cyberbullying against women occurs, with harassment and threats as the most prevalent forms; and (2) despite the proliferation of institutional measures, many responses remain fragmented and lack interdisciplinary integration. The study underscores the need for comprehensive, gender-sensitive frameworks that combine legal, educational, and technological strategies to address the structural roots of digital violence and to promote safe and equitable online environments.