Is Peer Victimization Associated with Higher Online Trolling among Adolescents? The Mediation of Hostile Attribution Bias and the Moderation of Trait Mindfulness

Abstract

Background: In recent years, online trolling has garnered significant attention due to its detrimental effects on mental health and social well-being. The current study examined the influence of peer victimization on adolescent online trolling behavior, proposing that hostile attribution bias mediated this relationship and that trait mindfulness moderated both the direct and indirect effects. Methods: A total of 833 Chinese adolescents completed the measurements of peer victimization, hostile attribution bias, trait mindfulness, and online trolling. Moderated mediation analysis was performed to examine the relationships between these variables. Results: After controlling for gender and residential address, the study found a significant positive correlation between peer victimization and online trolling, with hostile attribution bias serving as a mediator. In addition, trait mindfulness moderated the direct relationship between peer victimization and online trolling. Specifically, the effect of peer victimization on online trolling was attenuated when adolescents had high levels of trait mindfulness. The results of the study emphasized the joint role of peer and personal factors in adolescents’ online trolling behavior and provide certain strategies for intervening in adolescents’ online trolling behavior. Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that strategies focusing on peer support and mindfulness training can have a positive impact on reducing online trolling behavior, promoting adolescents’ mental health, and their long-term development.