Cybervictimization and emotional intelligence: the role of moods

Abstract

The analysis of the relationship between emotional intelligence, moods and cybervictimization constitutes a promising line of research to better understand the underlying mechanisms that affect behaviors related to cyberbullying and, therefore, to prevent it. Moods intervene in the behavior of individuals and emotional intelligence can be used to improve their self-regulation. The main objective of this research is to analyze the effect of emotional intelligence in peer-cybervictimization through its effect on individuals’ mood states. To do so a sample of 779 adolescents was used to test a research model using structural equation modelling. Main results suggest that emotional intelligence has a negative and significant effect in negative mood states which in turn influences peer-cybervictimization. Broadly speaking, individuals’ negative mood states are lower for individuals scoring higher in emotional intelligence and this influences peer-cybervictimization.