| Previous research has suggested that cyberbullying causes an array of harmful effects on its victims. Facebook provides a forum for online support groups for victims of cyberbullying; however, the use of such a forum remains understudied. Using the method of qualitative content analysis, the current study sought to explore what participants of Facebook cyberbully victim support groups discussed and whether participants found the groups helpful. Findings showed that Facebook cyberbully victim support groups provide a strong platform for members' connection. Predominant themes of discussion included community elements, sharing of personal stories, coping and advice, cyberbullying characteristics, media links, and direct offers of support. Whether participants of Facebook cyberbully victim support groups found the groups helpful is not clear. Participants conveyed appreciation for the groups as a place to commune; however, direct expressions of the groups being helpful or supportive were rare. |
