Teen mental health: Cyberbullying, relationship conflicts increase adolescent self-harm risk
KUALA LUMPUR: Cyberbullying, which can occur continuously without time or geographical boundaries, increases the risk of self-harm among adolescents, particularly when combined with relationship conflicts, a psychiatrist said.
Cyberbullying, which can persist without constraints of time or location, heightens the risk of self-harm among teenagers, especially when coupled with relationship conflicts, according to a psychiatrist. The Director and Senior Consultant Psychiatrist at Universiti Malaya's Faculty of Medicine, Dr Muhammad Muhsin Ahmad Zahari, highlighted that adolescents experience intricate biological, emotional, and behavioral growth.
The prefrontal cortex, responsible for judgment and rational thinking, is not fully developed in this age group, rendering adolescents more susceptible to interpersonal crises involving peers, family members, or partners. Stress from interpersonal situations, exacerbated by exposure to the digital realm, can significantly impair their capacity to make sound judgments.
Interpersonal troubles may also foster bullying, putting both victims and perpetrators at elevated risk for mental disorders, potentially culminating in violent conduct and suicide. Dr. Muhsin emphasized this when contacted today, in response to several recent cases of adolescents and students who reportedly jumped from buildings, fueling public concern.
He stressed that both physical and cyberbullying need early identification and intervention, as both victims and perpetrators may develop mental health issues. Parents and educators should be vigilant for shifts in behavior, sleep patterns, and emotional health. Dr. Muhsin advised homes and schools to offer safe environments where young individuals can seek assistance without fear of judgment or retribution.
He cautioned that punitive measures could compel them to suppress their problems, leading to further isolation. Dr. Muhsin argued that bullying responses should transcend legal action, incorporating psychological assessments, treatment, and counseling for both victims and perpetrators. He also called for a greater number of trained school counselors proficient in conducting risk assessments and crisis interventions, while underlining the urgent need to address the shortage of child and adolescent psychiatry specialists.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
