Stuttering and cyberbullying: A qualitative exploration on challenges faced in the digital world and coping strategies.

PURPOSE: This study investigates the social media use and cyberbullying experiences of people who stutter (PWS) and examines how these factors shape their online behavior, responses and coping strategies.

METHODS

Thirteen PWS (ages 16-26, M=22.07; 11 males, 2 females) participated in individual, online, semi-structured interviews. Participants reported using social media for an average of at least two hours per day. Data were analyzed thematically using MAXQDA through both inductive and deductive coding approaches.

RESULTS

Results identified six key themes related to online self-disclosure, the impact of stuttering on social media use, cyberbullying experiences and expectations, reactions to cyberbullying, perceived causes of cyberbullying and individual and societal strategies to address cyberbullying. Many participants (8 out of 13) disclosed through messages or posts and generally received positive feedback while also reporting concerns about cyberbullying and indirect exposure. Stuttering constrained active participation and led participants to engage in more deliberate planning and to prefer safer, more passive forms of interaction. Coping strategies ranged from avoidance to active self-protection and seeking social support. Participants reported emotional and behavioral reactions that were attributed to social stigmatization, online anonymity and limited opportunities for self-advocacy. Proposed solutions included enhanced privacy management, increased public awareness and the implementation of technological safeguards.

CONCLUSION

Social media can provide opportunities for support and self-expression but avoidance behaviors, passive use and the risk of cyberbullying may diminish these benefits. The findings of this study suggest that therapeutic support and technological improvements are necessary to enhance digital safety and promote more active and confident online participation among PWS.