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Shamed Online: A Review of Challenges and Legal Responses to Body Shaming as a Form of Cyberbullying

Author

Listed:
  • Mohd Zulhelmey Abdullah

    (Faculty of Law, University Technology MARA Cawangan Kedah, Kampus Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.)

  • Syatirah Abu Bakar

    (Faculty of Law, University Technology MARA Cawangan Kedah, Kampus Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.)

  • Salmah Roslim

    (Faculty of Law, University Technology MARA Cawangan Kedah, Kampus Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.)

  • Nur Irinah Mohamad Sirat

    (Faculty of Law, University Technology MARA Cawangan Kedah, Kampus Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.)

  • Siti Khadijah Abdullah Sanek

    (Faculty of Law, University Technology MARA Cawangan Kedah, Kampus Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.)

  • Nurul Mazrah Manshor

    (Faculty of Law, University Technology MARA Cawangan Kedah, Kampus Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia.)

Abstract

Online body shaming has rapidly become a symbol of widespread cyberbullying in digital spaces, disproportionately impacting adolescents and young adults, especially females. Social media and similar platforms amplify appearance-based harassment, leading to a variety of negative psychosocial effects—persistent sadness, increased anxiety, lowered self-esteem, disordered eating, and in severe cases, suicidal thoughts. Despite the gravity of this issue, legal and policy responses are inconsistent and fragmented, often struggling to balance victim protection with freedom of expression. This paper examines the urgent problem of body shaming as cyberbullying by analysing its psychological, regulatory, normative, and technological dimensions. Using Scopus AI Analytics (review date 23 August 2025), this study conducts a thorough assessment of the phenomenon, outlining its prevalence, impacts, legal barriers, and innovative remedial efforts. The outputs include summaries, expanded summaries, conceptual maps, and emerging themes, contributing to interdisciplinary understanding. The analysis shows that body shaming, as a form of cyberbullying, causes long-lasting psychological damage, reinforced by cultural beauty standards and the anonymity afforded by online spaces. Current legal frameworks remain inadequate due to vague definitions, weak enforcement, and cultural resistance. Preventive measures mainly depend on educational and awareness campaigns, yet evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. Emerging themes highlight technological solutions such as machine learning detection systems, along with a growing recognition of mental health impacts and the identification of body shaming as a distinct form of digital violence. The research advances theoretical knowledge by framing body shaming as a unique subtype of cyberbullying incorporating neurobiological, cultural, and legal factors, and practically by emphasising the need for cohesive legal reforms, psychological support, digital literacy programmes, and technological safeguards. These insights improve academic understanding and offer policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals pathways to develop more effective, evidence-based responses.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohd Zulhelmey Abdullah & Syatirah Abu Bakar & Salmah Roslim & Nur Irinah Mohamad Sirat & Siti Khadijah Abdullah Sanek & Nurul Mazrah Manshor, 2025. "Shamed Online: A Review of Challenges and Legal Responses to Body Shaming as a Form of Cyberbullying," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(9), pages 6099-6111, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-9:p:6099-6111
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Marta Malinowska-Cieślik & Anna Dzielska & Anna Oblacińska, 2022. "Psychosocial Determinants of Adolescents’ Cyberbullying Involvement—The Role of Body Satisfaction," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(3), pages 1-19, January.
    2. Pamela Tozzo & Oriana Cuman & Eleonora Moratto & Luciana Caenazzo, 2022. "Family and Educational Strategies for Cyberbullying Prevention: A Systematic Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(16), pages 1-17, August.
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