Parental psychological control and adolescents' cyberbullying: the mediator role of compulsive internet use and rule-breaking for females and males

Identifying the risk factors associated with cyberbullying is essential for preventive efforts. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of compulsive internet use and rule-breaking on the relationship between parental psychological control and adolescents' cyberbullying behaviors for females and males. The sample included 1697 adolescents (54.6% female) aged 10-17 (M = 13.38, SD = 2.03) and their mothers. In this longitudinal study, data were collected from both adolescents and their mothers at two time points one year apart. One-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and path analysis were used for statistical analysis. The results showed that both maternal and paternal psychological control, directly and indirectly, increased adolescents' cyberbullying behaviors through compulsive internet use and rule-breaking. For females, maternal psychological control was directly and indirectly related to adolescents' cyberbullying behaviors, while paternal psychological control was not. For males, paternal psychological control associated with adolescents' cyberbullying behaviors both directly and indirectly, while maternal psychological control was not. Results indicated that parental psychological control, adolescents' compulsive internet use, and rule-breaking behaviors are risk factors for cyberbullying behaviors and the relationships between these factors may vary according to gender. These results would guide policymakers, schools, and parents to collaborate to establish preventive intervention programs. It would also serve as a guide for mental health professionals working in this field.