How Social Media Platforms Increase Cyberbullying Against Marginalized Populations

Abstract

Cyberbullying is one of the most pressing social issues in the digital age, with a disproportionate impact on marginalized groups—including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. Protecting these populations is essential because they already face systemic inequalities and vulnerabilities, and online attacks can amplify their marginalization and cause severe psychological and social harm. This paper employs three theories—social constructivism, marginalized populations theory, and the bystander effect—to examine how platform features such as selective exposure and weak protective mechanisms exacerbate cyberbullying toward marginalized groups. It focuses on overexposure, selective suppression, and lack of protection with real-world cases. The discussion shows how platforms increase inequalities and bias, magnify harms, and deepen digital exclusion. Policy recommendations emphasize stronger platform protections, digital literacy, and school education.