Psychological Mechanisms of Bullying and Cyberbullying Among Cadets: Prevention and Legal Aspects
Abstract
Abstract. In the context of social instability, martial law, and the digital transformation of society, the problem of bullying and cyberbullying has become particularly relevant. Aggressive behavior patterns, a decline in the psychological culture of youth, and the transformation of social norms contribute to the emergence of psychological violence in the educational environment. In closed social microsystems such as higher education institutions, particularly departmental institutions within the security and defense sector, manifestations of bullying often remain latent but significantly affect cadets’ psycho-emotional state, self-esteem, and professional development. The research is based on an interdisciplinary approach that integrates psychological, sociological, pedagogical, and legal aspects. Bullying and cyberbullying are viewed not merely as interpersonal conflicts but as complex socio-psychological phenomena shaped by the collective climate, levels of empathy and emotional intelligence, the hierarchical structure of the learning environment, the personal traits of offenders, the reaction of observers, and the influence of digital technologies. Bullying and cyberbullying manifest in forms of psychological, physical, economic, and sexual violence, mobbing, discrimination, and digital pressure. Their consequences for cadets include anxiety, psychosomatic disorders, decreased learning motivation, social isolation, professional cynicism, and impaired formation of professional identity. Effective prevention requires a comprehensive approach encompassing psychological and pedagogical support, the development of emotional competence, self-regulation skills, training programs, legal awareness, and preventive measures at all levels of the educational process. Key measures include anonymous surveys, training groups, mediation, and the establishment of trusting relationships between cadets and academic staff. The legal aspect covers the analysis of national legislation and internal university regulations concerning counteraction to bullying, cyberbullying, mobbing, and discrimination, as well as mechanisms of disciplinary, administrative, and criminal response. The combination of legal and psychological measures ensures the creation of a safe educational environment, promoting the development of professional identity, self-realization, and professional competence of future specialists in the security and defense sector.
Keywords: bullying; cyberbullying; mobbing; psychological safety; higher education institution; professional self-actualization; digital environment’ preventive measures.
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References
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