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Cyberbullying and Adolescent Suicide
Ariel Schonfeld1, Dale McNiel2, Takeo Toyoshima2
1Dr. Schonfeld is a child, adolescent, adult, and forensic psychiatrist in private practice in San Francisco, CA. Dr. McNiel is Professor of Clinical Psychology, Dr. Toyoshima is a Fellow in Forensic Psychiatry, and Dr. Binder is Professor of Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA. ariel@schonfeldpsychiatry.com.
The Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
|February 23, 2023
Summary
Cyberbullying is a growing risk for adolescents, linked to rising suicide rates and termed cyberbullicide. Understanding online risks and legal protections is crucial for parents and youth.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Criminology
- Public Health
Background:
- Adolescent exposure to the internet presents risks like cyberbullying and online predation.
- Incidences of cyberbullying and adolescent suicide are increasing in the U.S., with cyberbullying linked to victim suicide (cyberbullicide).
- Lack of awareness regarding cyberbullying risks and legal liabilities is prevalent among parents and youth.
Approach:
- Examines the epidemiology of adolescent suicidality, cyberbullying, and cyberbullicide.
- Reviews recent legislation and legal frameworks addressing cyberbullying.
- Illustrates the role of forensic psychiatry in cyberbullicide cases.
Key Points:
- 14.9% of adolescents report cyberbullying; 13.6% have attempted suicide.
- Cyberbullicide is a recognized phenomenon linking cyberbullying to adolescent suicide.
- Federal prosecution of cyberbullying occurs via cyberstalking statutes due to lack of specific federal laws.
Conclusions:
- Current legislation is fragmented, with state laws varying and no federal cyberbullying law.
- Forensic psychiatrists play a vital role in assessing and addressing cyberbullicide in legal contexts.
- Enhanced awareness and legal understanding are needed to mitigate cyberbullying's impact on youth mental health.
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