The healthy context paradox of bullying victimization and academic adjustment among Chinese adolescents: A moderated mediation model

Abstract

Few empirical studies have specifically examined the underlying mechanisms of the "healthy context paradox" in Chinese cultural context. By constructing a moderated mediation model, the present study investigated the relationship between bullying victimization and academic adjustment, as well as the mediating effects of subjective well-being and the moderating role of classroom-level victimization. A sample of 631 adolescents (Mage = 13.75, SD = 0.74, 318 boys) were recruited from four schools in Hubei, Southern China. Results show that: (1) classroom-level victimization moderates the relationship between bullying victimization and academic adjustment. (2) Classroom-level victimization moderates the association through subjective well-being. This study confirms the healthy context paradox of bullying victimization and first reveals the mechanism of the mediating role of subjective well-being. Understanding the mechanisms that contribute to the health context paradox is crucial for developing targeted intervention strategies for individuals who experience ongoing bullying.

The Healthy Context Paradox Between Bullying and Emotional Adaptation: A Moderated Mediating Effect

“…In a negative context where instances of bullying are more common, individuals may become accustomed to such behavior, potentially leading to a higher tolerance for bullying. 12,13,17,18…”

“…However, when it comes to bullying-related issues, even those in a positive class may experience negative consequences. 41 The Present Study To our knowledge, existed studies have focused one's academic performance and depression when it comes to the healthy context paradox, 17,18,21 but little research has investigated the role of emotional adaptation when discussing the paradoxical relationship between individual bullying victimization and mental health outcomes. Based on the lack of validation of previous research findings in the Chinese context regarding the topic, this study aims to examine the relationship between individual bullying victimization and emotional adaptation.…”