Cyberbullying can occur at any time from any location, making it seem inescapable for some victims. A recent meta-analysis indicated that between 14% and 58% of adolescents in 11 countries/regions had experienced cyber victimization (i.e., being cyberbullied; Zhu et al., 2021).). Emotion regulation, a strategy through which individuals manage their emotional responses to stress (Gross, 1999), can be effective in dealing with such experiences. Cognitive reappraisal, a method of reinterpreting the emotional significance and impact of a situation, has been suggested in several studies as one of the most effective emotion regulation strategies for handling negative life events or stress. However, few studies have explored how cognitive reappraisal may mediate the effects of cyber victimization on psychological well-being. The current study aimed to address this gap.
A total of 303 college students completed a questionnaire assessing their past experiences with cyber victimization, use of emotion regulation strategies, and life satisfaction (a measure of psychological well-being). The results indicated a significant negative association between past cyber victimization and cognitive reappraisal, and a significant positive association between cognitive reappraisal and life satisfaction. Additionally, cognitive reappraisal significantly mediated the relationship between past cyber victimization and life satisfaction. These findings will guide future research and interventions, highlighting the role of cognitive reappraisal as a potential method for mitigating the negative impacts of cyber victimization.

Authors:
Angel Nga Man Leung, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Angel N.M. Leung is an Assistant Professor at The Education University of Hong Hong. Her research projects are mainly related to cyberbullying, E-learning, and well-being.

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