One-third Singapore youths experience cyberbullying

Over one-third of Singaporean youths have experienced cyberbullying, Channel NewsAsia reported on Tuesday, citing a study by security vendor McAfee.

According to the study, which polled 512 youngsters aged 13 to 18 from June 25 to July 11 this year, about 34.6 percent indicated that they had experienced cyberbullying, while 61 percent witnessed such act.

And about 52 youths, which takes up about 29.4 percent of respondents, admitted that they have bullied others online, and 27. 7 percent said they have been bullied.

Indicating the reasons of online bully, McAfee said in its press release that "of those who responded that they were cyberbullied, the majority cited that it was due to appearance and academic achievements...Compared to other countries, religion, race or sexuality play a less significant role in Singapore."

Despite the possible unpleasant experiences online, nearly half of teens say that they feel more accepted on social media than in person, while 45 percent feel depressed when they don't receive a lot of likes.

The study also showed that online bullying has positive connection with real-life confrontations. According to the study, 44 percent has been involved in an argument because of the content they posted on social media, while 13 percent said the original online dissension has led to a physical fight.