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Cyberbullying is known to adversely affect teen health. To assess its effects on mental health and substance use, researchers conducted a survey of Midwestern teens. The number and regularity of family dinners was used as a proxy for family interaction and support. Results were as follows:
Of 18,834 adolescents surveyed, 18.6% experienced at least one instance of cyberbullying during the previous 12 months; however, only 2.2% experienced it frequently.
Cyberbullying victimization was more common in girls than in boys (odds ratio, 2.95).
Girls victimized by cyberbullying were less likely to have substance abuse issues compared with boys but more likely to have internalizing problems of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm.
The f…