Phone bullying: impact on self‐esteem and well‐being

Abstract

Purpose

Most current research emphasises the benefits of mobile communications for consumers. The purpose of this paper, however, is to investigate the neglected negative effect of “m‐bullying” on young consumers, to expand the understanding of the pervasive impact of enhanced mobile communication.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a cross‐sectional mall intercept method. The survey instrument comprised of sets of statements about the self and the experience of using mobile phones, followed by a set of demographic questions.

Findings

Findings indicate both genders experience m‐bullying and that levels of self‐esteem were found to have a direct effect on overall well being.

Originality/value

While prior research emphasised the positive aspects of enhanced connectivity, this paper advances understanding of the negative aspects of mobile communications and identified the risk of bullying inherent in continuous communication.

Citation

Drennan, J., Brown, M.R. and Sullivan Mort, G. (2011), "Phone bullying: impact on self‐esteem and well‐being", Young Consumers, Vol. 12 No. 4, pp. 295-309. https://doi.org/10.1108/17473611111185850