Behind the Screen: Exploring Cyber Harassment, Self-Esteem, and Emotional Strain among College Students in District Haripur

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between cyber harassment victimization, self-esteem, and psychological distress among college students in district Haripur. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using convenient sampling, with data collected from 300 students (150 males and 150 females) from different colleges of District Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The participants completed three standardized instruments: the Cyber Harassment Assessment Scale (Pereira et al., 2016), the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (Kessler et al., 2003), and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (Rosenberg, 1965). Independent sample t-test results showed that female students reported higher levels of cyber harassment and psychological distress, whereas male students reported higher levels of self-esteem. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive association between cyber harassment and psychological distress, and significant negative associations between cyber harassment and self-esteem, as well as between psychological distress and self-esteem. These findings highlight the psychological vulnerabilities associated with cyber harassment and underscore the need for targeted interventions among students.