Examining the predictive effect of technology addiction and impulsivity on cyber bullying in young adults

Throughout human history, various addictions such as alcohol, gambling, and drugs have been encountered, prompting efforts to combat their negative effects. In the past 20-30 years, a new type of addiction has emerged: technology addiction. With the advancement of technology and the internet, technology addiction, which includes subtypes like social media addiction, instant messaging addiction, and digital gaming addiction, can lead to negative consequences similar to other forms of addiction.This study aimed to investigate the predictive effects of technology addiction and impulsivity on cyberbullying among young adults. The research utilized a quantitative approach with a correlational design. Data were collected via Google Forms, employing the Technology Addiction Scale, Cyberbullying Scale, Cyber Victimization Scale, and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale. The study sample consisted of 468 individuals aged 18-30 years. SPSS 21.0 was used for data analysis.Results indicated that technology addiction was more prevalent among males than females, with females experiencing higher levels of cyber victimization. Technology addiction did not significantly vary with age, but higher levels of education were associated with lower levels of technology addiction, impulsivity, and cyberbullying. The study also found that technology addiction and impulsivity increased the likelihood of engaging in cyberbullying. By identifying at-risk groups prone to impulsivity and addiction, targeted interventions focusing on controlling these behaviors could contribute to preventing cyberbullying. Recommendations include increasing public awareness about the responsible use of technology, enhancing education on cyberbullying and technology in schools, providing emotional education and empathy-building activities from early childhood, and increasing behavioral skills training aimed at managing impulses effectively.