@article{ref1,
title="Social connectedness, cyberbullying, and well-being: preliminary findings from the Longitudinal Adolescent Brain Study",
journal="Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking",
year="2022",
author="McLoughlin, Larisa T. and Simcock, Gabrielle and Schwenn, Paul and Beaudequin, Denise and Boyes, Amanda and Parker, Marcella and Lagopoulos, Jim and Hermens, Daniel F.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="Social connectedness is well established as an important aspect of adolescence, with higher levels typically resulting in positive mental health and well-being. Cyberbullying is a prevalent concern during adolescence and is a significant contributor to poor mental health outcomes during this important phase of life. Research shows that social connectedness may act as a protective factor for mental health and well-being when young people experience cyberbullying. However, further research is required to elucidate associations between social connectedness, well-being, and cyberbullying over time. This article outlines preliminary findings from the Longitudinal Adolescent Brain Study (LABS). Data are reported from N = 64 LABS participants recruited at age 12 and assessed at four timepoints over a 12-month period, with a total of 204 completed assessments. Structural equation modeling revealed a mediating effect of social connectedness on the relationship between cyberbullying and well-being. In other words, the negative influences of cyberbullying and cybervictimization on well-being scores over time are influenced by levels of social connectedness. The present findings highlight that increased social connectedness in young people is vital to promoting positive well-being over time and can protect well-being in those experiencing cyberbullying and/or cybervictimization. <br><br>FINDINGS can inform cyberbullying education programs, health care practitioners, parents, and educators on the importance of young people remaining socially connected when experiencing cyberbullying and/or cybervictimization.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2152-2715",
doi="10.1089/cyber.2020.0539",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2020.0539"
}