Does High Self-Efficacy in Adolescents Minimize Cyber Bullying Behaviour?

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explain the moderation role of self-efficacy in the relationship between cyber victimization and cyber bullying. Methods: A total of 340 high school students participated in the study aged between 14 and 18 years. Research data was obtained with the Cyber Bullying and Internet Aggression Survey Scale, and the Self-Efficacy Scale. Correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationships between variables in the study. Hierarchical regression analysis based on the Hayes method was used to test the mediation effects in the study. Results: As a result of the research, it was found that 42% of the participants were exposed to cyber bullying and 35% engaged in cyber bullying. The research revealed that there is a moderate, positive and significant relationship between cyber victimization and cyber bullying. As a result of mediation analysis, it was observed that self-efficacy affects the relationship between cyber victimization and cyber bullying. Conclusion: The results indicate that a decrease in self-efficacy leads to increased cyber bullying behaviour, while an increase in self-efficacy decreases cyber bullying behaviour after cyber victimization. From this point of view, carrying out studies to increase the self-efficacy levels of students in schools will reduce cyber bullying. Keywords: Cyber victimization, cyber bullying, self-efficacy, moderation