RESPONSES OF YOUTH TOWARDS POLITICAL BULLYING ON FACEBOOK: A SENTIMENT ANALYSIS

Abstract

Facebook has become a central platform for political engagement, but it has also witnessed a rise in political bullying, especially during times of national or political tension. This study investigates the responses of youth towards political bullying on Facebook, focusing on both the prevalence of such behavior and its psychological, emotional, and social impacts. With the increasing role of social media as a space for political engagement, political bullying has emerged as a significant challenge that shapes the experiences of young users. To address this issue, the research adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative techniques. The quantitative component consists of a structured survey distributed to youth aged 18–30, designed to measure the frequency, forms, and consequences of political bullying, as well as the coping mechanisms employed by users. The qualitative component includes semi-structured interviews with individuals who have directly experienced political bullying, allowing for an in-depth exploration of its emotional and psychological effects. Additionally, a content analysis of publicly available political posts and comments on Facebook is conducted to identify patterns of hostile language, bullying behaviors, and response strategies. Data will be analyzed through descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and regression models for the survey. The findings of this study are expected to provide a comprehensive understanding of how political bullying influences youth engagement in digital political discourse. The research aims to highlight the coping strategies youth employ, the challenges they face, and the broader implications for democratic participation. Ultimately, the study seeks to inform policymakers, educators, and social media platforms about the importance of creating safer and more inclusive online spaces for political dialogue.