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  4. Vol 6, Issue 2, 2025

The Causes, Impacts, and Countermeasures of Event-Based Cyber Violence against Chinese Female Athletes

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DOI: 10.23977/mediacr.2025.060216 | Downloads: 8 | Views: 357

Author(s)

Chenxi Ma 1

Affiliation(s)

1 King's College London, London, WC2R 2LS, The United Kingdom

Corresponding Author

Chenxi Ma

ABSTRACT

Cyber violence, fueled by social media, is a growing global issue with widespread consequences on mental health, career success, and public perception. Chinese women athletes are disproportionately vulnerable, often targeted after controversial public events due to gender stereotyping, media sensationalism, and socio-cultural factors. However, research on its causes, effects, and solutions remains limited. This research examines cyber violence against women athletes in China through qualitative case studies of figures like Gu Ailing, and explores the causes, forms, and consequences of online abuse. The study highlights links between cyberbullying and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. It also reveals the negative impact on athletic performance and sponsorship opportunities. Additionally, it reinforces gender biases and fosters a toxic online environment, harming the broader sports culture. While solutions such as legislation, media campaigns, and counselling exist, enforcement challenges weaken their effectiveness. This study advocates for stronger legal protections, stricter social media regulations, enhanced support from sports associations, and public campaigns promoting safer online behavior. By systematically addressing cyber violence against female athletes, this research contributes to gender equality discourse and media ethics in sports while offering practical solutions for a more respectful and safer online space.

KEYWORDS

Cyber Violence, Chinese Female Athletes, Incidental Cyber Violence, Gender Bias, Coping Strategies

CITE THIS PAPER

Chenxi Ma, The Causes, Impacts, and Countermeasures of Event-Based Cyber Violence against Chinese Female Athletes. Media and Communication Research (2025) Vol. 6: 113-120. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/mediacr.2025.060216.

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