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Psychological Perspectives On Cyberbullying Perpetration | Dr Vanlal Thanzami | TEDxUTM

 

In her TEDxUTM talk, Dr. Vanlal Thanzami, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Monash University Malaysia, explores the complex issue of cyberbullying, offering insights from psychological research and her own studies.

Dr. Thanzami begins by defining cyberbullying as an intentional act of aggression carried out through electronic means against individuals who find it difficult to defend themselves. Unlike traditional bullying, which often involves physical strength and visibility, cyberbullying allows perpetrators to remain anonymous.

While traditional bullying is characterized by a visible imbalance of power and often occurs in physical settings, cyberbullying transcends these boundaries. The anonymity afforded by digital platforms means that anyone, regardless of social status or physical strength, can become a cyberbully. This shift has significant implications for how society understands and addresses bullying behavior.

Dr. Thanzami emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological motivations that drive individuals to engage in cyberbullying. Factors such as personality traits, including narcissism and psychopathy, as well as social dominance, play a role. Additionally, individuals who have previously been victims of bullying may become perpetrators themselves, seeking revenge or validation. Drawing from her research conducted in Indonesia, Dr. Thanzami highlights that past victimization, both in traditional and cyber contexts, is a significant predictor of cyberbullying behavior. While traits like narcissism and psychopathy are associated with cyberbullying, anonymity was not found to be a significant factor in her study. This suggests that the motivations behind cyberbullying are multifaceted and not solely dependent on the ability to remain anonymous.

The expansive reach of social media platforms amplifies the impact of cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, which is limited to specific environments, cyberbullying can occur at any time and reach a vast audience, intensifying the distress experienced by victims.

Dr. Thanzami advocates for comprehensive intervention programs that consider the psychological profiles of both victims and perpetrators. Recognizing that bullies may also be vulnerable individuals is crucial in developing effective strategies. Social connectedness can serve as a protective factor against the harmful effects of cyberbullying.

Dr. Thanzami's insights emphasise the need for targeted interventions, supportive communities, and appropriate legislation to combat this pervasive issue effectively.




TEDx Talks (Director). (2019, juliol 16). Psychological Perspectives On Cyberbullying Perpetration | Dr Vanlal Thanzami | TEDxUTM [Video recording]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5Hur3VlhtE

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