School bullying and cyberbullying in students with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review (2014–2025)

Background/Purpose Students with autism spectrum disorder are at increased risk of bullying and may be vulnerable to cyberbullying, yet prevalence estimates vary. This systematic review synthesizes empirical evidence (2014–2025) on school bullying and cyberbullying among students with Autism, focusing on prevalence/forms, roles and correlates, consequences, and contextual factors relevant to prevention and educational practice.Methods Following PRISMA 2020, Scopus and Web of Science were searched (last search January 8th, 2025) for peer-reviewed empirical studies in English or Spanish. Two reviewers independently screened records and extracted data; disagreements were resolved by consensus. Given heterogeneity in designs and measures, findings were synthesized narratively. Methodological quality was appraised using STROBE-informed criteria.Results From 187 records, 41 studies met inclusion criteria. Bullying prevalence among students with Autism ranged from 13% to 85%, with most estimates between 40% and 70%. Cyberbullying ranged approximately from 14% to 78% and appeared more often in recent publications. Verbal and social/relational victimization were most common; physical bullying was lower but notable. Victimization generally exceeded perpetration, although bully–victim profiles were reported and often linked to comorbidities (e.g. attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and emotion-regulation difficulties. Risk was frequently higher in mainstream than special educational settings. Across studies, bullying involvement was associated with anxiety, depression, school avoidance/absenteeism, and suicidal ideation/attempts.Conclusion Students with Autism experience disproportionately high bullying and emerging cyberbullying risk with serious mental-health and educational consequences. Prevention should combine whole-school inclusive approaches with targeted supports and digital-safety education; future research should strengthen cross-cultural and longitudinal evidence.