TEENAGERS subjected to online bullying are at greater risk of later emotional and behavioural difficulties, new research suggests.

The University of Edinburgh study found young people who experienced cyberbullying were more likely to develop problems over the following six months if the experience led to loneliness and trouble managing their emotions. 

Researchers surveyed 501 adolescents aged 15 to 18 at two Chinese high schools, repeating the survey after six months to track outcomes.

Loneliness and emotion regulation difficulties appeared to have more influence than self-esteem issues in explaining the link between cyberbullying and later problems. 

Difficulty regulating emotions was linked to anxiety, while poor impulse control was linked to conduct problems.

Study lead Yixuan Li said: “Cyberbullying victimisation can have serious consequences for young people’s mental health, but our findings suggest that what happens afterwards also matters. 

“Adolescents subjected to cyberbullying may feel increasingly lonely and may struggle to manage difficult emotions, which may help explain why some go on to experience emotional and behavioural difficulties. 

“The clear message is that supporting young people after cyberbullying is important.”