Addressing cyberbullying in adolescents: A comprehensive meta-analytic evaluation of intervention programs

Cyberbullying can be considered one malady of our time. This meta-analysis investigates examines the effectiveness of intervention programs in reducing cyberbullying victimization (CV) and cyberbullying perpetration (CP) among adolescents. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using ProQuest Dissertation and Theses Global (PQDT), Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search yielded 30 studies (k_CV = 30; k_CP = 31) for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Results indicated that the programs significantly reduced both CV (g = −0.331, p < .001) and CP (g = −0.454, p < .001) among adolescents. Moderator analyses revealed that gender composition and study design significantly moderated the effectiveness of interventions for both CV and CP. Specifically, programs involving samples with more than 50 % girls and those utilizing quasi-experimental designs showed greater effectiveness. In addition, active control groups and longer intervention durations significantly enhanced program outcomes for CP, although these factors did not significantly influence CV outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of participant characteristics, methodological rigor, and dosage in optimizing intervention success. Implications for researchers, educators, and mental health professionals developing cyberbullying intervention programs for adolescents are discussed.