A 25-Year Meta-Analysis of Cybervictimization and Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth

Objective: Sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth are at disproportionately high risk of self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs). Cybervictimization may contribute to this risk. This is the first meta-analysis on the association between cybervictimization and SITBs in SGM samples. Methods: A systematic search of six databases identified peer-reviewed articles and dissertations (2000–2025) examining the association between cybervictimization and SITBs in SGM samples, or moderation effects between SGM identity and cybervictimization on SITBs. Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria. Two random-effects meta-analyses were conducted using correlation as the effect size metric. Study quality, publication bias, and heterogeneity were assessed using PRISMA guidelines. Results: Ten studies yielded a significant and positive, but small, aggregate effect between cybervictimization and SITBs in SGM samples (r = .23), which remained significant after adjusting for publication bias (r = .18) and sensitivity analyses. The prediction interval (.005 to .435) indicated effects may vary widely in future studies. The meta-analysis of six studies examining interaction effects produced a near-zero effect (r = –.003). Conclusions: Findings highlight a critical blind spot in SGM youth suicide prevention research, limiting the effectiveness of social media and suicide prevention policy.