Attacking Others Online: The Formation of Cyberbullying in Late Adolescence

Cyberbullying frequency is related to a wide range of negative outcomes. Little research has attempted to delineate the long-term predictors and mechanisms to predict cyberbullying. Study 1 (N 493) used a correlational study that tested our long-term model of cyberbullying. This model predicted that cyberbullying is a function of positive attitudes toward cyberbullying, which are formed by attitudes toward strength and anonymity that exists in aggressing against others in the mediated world. Results showed strong support for our model. Study 2 (N 181) used a longitudinal design to further test our model. Participants completed measures of cyberbullying and cyber-victimization at Wave 1, and again two months later. Positive attitudes toward cyberbullying and reinforcement of cyberbullying tactics were also assessed at Wave 2. Results showed that positive attitudes and reinforcement mediated the stability in cyberbullying. Future research and implications are discussed.