Illustrative image of a child engrossed in using a mobile phone, symbolizing the challenges of cyberbullying faced by Indian children.
A collaborative study conducted by leading institutions in India has shed light on the severity of cyberbullying among young adults in the country. The research project, titled “Cyberbullying Prevention in India & the US: A Cross-Cultural Collaboration,” was spearheaded by Dr. Nandini Sharma, Director Professor & HoD Community Medicine at Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, and funded by the Ministry of Education.
The study aimed to strengthen cross-cultural collaboration between Indian and U.S. researchers to tackle the issue of cyberbullying through effective parenting strategies. By conducting a longitudinal survey among adolescents in both countries, the researchers aimed to build capacity among stakeholders and raise awareness about cyberbullying prevention.
Dr. Nandini Sharma explains, “Through this project, we aimed to empower parents, teachers, law enforcement officials, policymakers, and healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent cyberbullying. The goal was to create a safe online environment for young individuals and reduce the prevalence of this harmful phenomenon.”
The collaboration involved three Indian institutions: Maulana Azad Medical College, IIIT Delhi, and PGI Chandigarh, along with three universities in the United States: the University of South Alabama, the University of Florida, and the University of Central Florida. The project resulted in the publication of a book titled “Cyberbullying Prevention in India & the US,” which is available for download.
Cyberbullying has become a pressing concern globally, with detrimental effects on the mental health and well-being of young individuals. The research conducted in India highlights the urgent need for preventive measures and collaborative efforts to address this issue. It calls for a comprehensive approach involving parents, educators, policymakers, and society as a whole.
In light of the recent focus on cyberbullying, prominent figures like British actress Kate Winslet have raised awareness about its detrimental impact on children. It is crucial to eliminate harmful content from the online ecosystem and create a safer digital space for our youth.
The study serves as a significant step forward in understanding and combating cyberbullying in India. By fostering cross-cultural collaboration and implementing effective prevention strategies, we can create a future where young individuals can thrive in a secure and respectful online environment.
