Possible common correlates between bullying and cyber bullying among adolescents
The present study investigates possible individual characteristics associated with traditional and cyber bullying/victimization among 146 Greek junior high school students and their contribution in the prediction of the phenomena. Participants completed a self report questionnaire, measuring online disinhibition, personality traits, social skills, and relations, as well as Internet use. Results indicated that although some students participated with the same role in traditional and cyber bullying/victimization and shared common characteristics, most of them participated in either one or both phenomena with opposite roles. In terms of predictive factors, cyber bullying was predicted by being a male, online disinhibition, online activity and psychopathic traits, while traditional bullying was predicted by being a male, online disinhibition and sensation seeking. Cyber victimization was predicted by online disinhibition, assertion, and few peer relations, while traditional victimization by Internet skills and impulsive irresponsible traits. Findings are discussed in terms of common and differentiated prevention and intervention practices.