Cybervictimization, Social Anxiety, and Depressive Symptoms in College Students: The Roles of Friend, Family, and Online Support

Cybervictimization, defined as repeated harm via digital communication, is prevalent among college students and linked to negative mental health outcomes, including social anxiety and depression. Based on the stress-buffering model, social support (i.e. resources and social connections) from family and friends may help protect students from these effects, though evidence is mixed and limited in college populations. Even fewer studies have examined online support, though it may be a promising source of coping for students experiencing cybervictimization. In this study, 1,510 undergraduates completed measures of cybervictimization, friend and family support, online support, social anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Multivariate general linear modeling revealed that cybervictimization was associated with greater social anxiety among students with lower friend support (interaction p = .008) and, surprisingly, higher online support (interaction p = .003). Although longitudinal study is needed, these findings may support the development of campus interventions that strengthen supportive peer relationships and promote healthy boundaries around online support among college students who have experienced cybervictimization.