From Fun to Fear: Unveiling the Nexus of Cyberbullying and Online Gaming

Abstract

With the global reach of the internet, online gaming has also gained colossal popularity. Online games are alluring, thus attracting a wide audience to its virtual realm. People are widely attracted to different types of games available on the internet, these may include sports games, adventurous games, action games, board games, Massive Multiplayer Online Games, card games, etc. Online gaming has emerged as a source of amusement and recreation in the digital era. Problematic online gaming, especially among youth, may be associated with detrimental effects, such as physical, psychological, and emotional problems, issues with academic performance, and increased cyberbullying perpetration. Cyberbullying is a serious growing concern for society, particularly in the case of youth. This article aims to highlight the role of online gaming in facilitating cyberbullying. The sample for the study consisted of 151 individuals in the age range of 17 to 26. The results of the study indicated problematic online gaming was a significant predictor of cyberbullying among youth. This paper presents the preventive methods to curb cyberbullying.