Defending defined: Exploring how youth defend against peer victimization
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Authors
Lambe, Laura
Date
2021-04-13
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
bullying , peer victimization , peer intervention , defending , adolescence
Alternative Title
Abstract
The current dissertation comprises three research studies that examined how youth defend their peers from victimization, as well as the social-emotional correlates of these defending behaviors. Theories of prosocial behavior, social-information processing, and adolescent socialization were applied to understand the multidimensional nature of peer defending behaviors across studies. Study 1 focused on the development and validation of the Defending Behaviors Scale (DBS) in a sample of early adolescents (n = 572). Results supported a four-factor model consisting of comforting, reporting, solution-focused, and aggressive defending. Most youth reporting using a variety of defending behaviors, with girls being more likely to use comforting and reporting and boys being more likely to use aggressive defending. Studies 2 and 3 used the DBS to examine the social-emotional predictors and outcomes of these defending behaviors. Study 2 (n = 120) employed a novel virtual-reality paradigm to examine defending behaviors as they unfold in real- time. The central finding from this study indicated that both anger and empathy interact to predict different defending behaviors. Lastly, study 3 (n = 334) used a longitudinal social network design to examine the social risks and rewards of defending behaviors in the peer group. Results demonstrated peer socialization effects for comforting, reporting, and solution-focused defending behaviors. Each defending behavior was reinforced in gender-normative ways by the peer group in terms of subsequent changes in victimization and popularity. Through the integration of theoretical perspectives and application of novel research methods, this dissertation describes the intrapersonal and interpersonal factors that influence how youth defend against peer victimization. Findings from this research can inform the development of bullying prevention and intervention efforts that aim to increase peer defending among early adolescents.
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ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.