ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Cyberbullying is a growing digital threat among late adolescents, often leading to emotional distress, academic decline, and social withdrawal. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Cyberbullying Awareness Programme (CAP) based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Methodology: A true experimental pre-test–post-test control group design was used. 200 late adolescents aged 18–22 years were selected by using simple random sampling. Late adolescents were randomly allocated into experimental (n=100) and control (n=100) groups. Validated tools measured knowledge (r=0.86), attitude (a=0.94), and assertiveness (r=0.86). The experimental group underwent a four-week CAP intervention including psychoeducation, interactive discussions, creative expression, and documentary film. Results: Significant improvements were observed in knowledge (11.54 to 21.29), attitude (41.76 to 67.54), and assertiveness (3.45 to 8.59). Strong correlation was found between knowledge and attitude (r=0.758), knowledge and assertiveness (r=0.812), and attitude and assertiveness (r=0.728). There is a significant association between knowledge and socio-demographic variables such as year of study and mother’s education. There is a significant association between attitude and socio-demographic variables, including gender, type of family, and father’s education. There is a significant association between assertiveness and socio-demographic variables such as age, year of study, type of family, and mother’s occupation. There is a significant association between knowledge and internet-usage variables, such as the device used to access the internet and the most visited social media platforms. There is a significant association between attitude and internet-usage variables, such as the device used and the purpose of internet use. However, no significant association is found between internet-usage variables and assertiveness. Conclusion: CAP is an effective intervention for improving cyberbullying-related knowledge, attitudes, and assertiveness.