Cyberbullying in Pakistan: Exploring Effects, Impacts and Strategies for Prevention
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65755/jpa-20264701-134Keywords:
Cyberbullying, Online harassment, Digital evidence, Mental health stigma, Digital literacyAbstract
The study addresses the growing issue of cyberbullying in Pakistan, particularly with the rise in internet and social media use. It explores the psychological and emotional consequences of cyberbullying on victims, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The study also evaluates the effectiveness of Pakistan's legal frameworks, especially the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, in combating online harassment. Despite PECA's existence, the study finds that its implementation faces challenges such as low conviction rates, difficulties in gathering digital evidence, and a lack of enforcement resources. Furthermore, cultural and societal factors, such as the stigma surrounding mental health, contribute to the underreporting of incidents. By comparing Pakistan’s situation with that of India and the United States, the research highlights the specific legal and societal challenges in Pakistan, offering recommendations for improving awareness, legal responses, and victim support systems. The study concludes that a more robust, adaptive legal framework, enhanced digital literacy programs, and greater cooperation among stakeholders are crucial to effectively tackle cyberbullying in Pakistan.
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