Cyberbullying in Adolescence: Bully and the Victim

Abstract

The following research analyses the results of the empirical study conducted among adolescents showing high levels of cyberbullying and their peers prone to cyber victimization. The theoretical basis for the purpose of the following research is represented by the modern studies and their conflicting profiling of the personality features specific for adolescents prone to bullying as well as victimization in cyberspace. The case study is represented by a group of eighth and ninth grade students studying in Moscow schools, the respondents were divided into three groups: those showing high levels of cyberbullying (N=29), those showing distinct cyber victim behavior (N=34), and those showing standard behavior in this area (N=30). The research is based on the following studies and methodologies: Multifactorial personality questionnaire (14 PF) by R.B. Cattell, «Level of subjective control» test by V.F. Bazhin, E.A. Golynkina, A.M. Atkind and test by A.V. Zverkov, E.V. Eydman’s "Study of voluntary self-regulation". The research has identified similar features specific for adolescents showing clear signs of cyberbullying as well as cyber victim behavior: low levels of emotional stability and self-control, external locus of control, reduced levels of internality in interpersonal relationships. The research also identifies specific personality features distinct for each group. The data collected in this study can be applied when developing programs to prevent cyberbullying among adolescents.