Examining the Role of Biased Beliefs and Affective Empathy on Bullying

Abstract

Bullying is a long-standing, pervasive problem that affects about one-third of youth internationally. Using a cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) framework, the current study conceptualized the thoughts (biased beliefs) and feelings (affective empathy) of perpetrators as key variables to identify ways in which bullying can be best addressed. The study also considers how demographic characteristics impact these relationships. The sample included 153 adolescents aged 12 to 18 in the United Kingdom who were surveyed by the anti-bullying organization Ditch the Label. Results show that biased beliefs did vary significantly by sex, consistent with previous research. The current study also found that biased beliefs and affective empathy together explained 20% of the variance in bullying behaviors. Biased beliefs also emerged as a significant positive predictor, while affective empathy did not (though it demonstrated a non-significant negative relationship). Finally, the study found that sex significantly moderated the relationships between biased beliefs and bullying, and affective empathy and bullying. This study provides a new perspective on the cognitive and affective influences that can impact bullying perpetration, as well as the important moderating role of sex.