The neural underpinnings of body image-related cyberbullying in adolescent females: A proposed neurobiological model

Abstract

Background: The widespread adoption of social media has precipitated an increase in cyberbullying. Body image-related cyberbullying (BRC)- which targets an individuals body shape, weight or size -is particularly prevalent among adolescent females, and is associated with negative body image outcomes and eating disorder symptoms. Although research has begun to address the prevalence and psychological impacts of BRC, a significant gap remains in our understanding of the specific neurobiological responses of adolescent females to BRC. This paper presents the body image-related cyberbullying neurobiological model (BRC-NM), which can be used as a framework to investigate the neural underpinnings of adolescent females' responses to BRC.

Method: Drawing from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies of body image and peer victimisation, the BRC-NM details the complex interactions among neural, psychological, and social factors likely involved in experiences of BRC.

Results: The BRC-NM delineated several key brain regions involved in emotional regulation, self-referential thought, and social cognition that are proposed to be involved in the emotional and cognitive processing of viewing BRC.

Conclusion: By integrating existing knowledge and establishing connections across disciplines such as psychology and neurobiology, the BRC-NM contributes to the evolving field of neurobiological research, enhancing our understanding of the impact of BRC and supporting the development of targeted interventions.