Cyber victimization and subjective well-being: protective roles of self-esteem and social support among Turkish gifted youths

Abstract

Background: Cyber victimization has emerged as a significant issue among adolescents, particularly gifted youths. This study examines the serial mediating roles of self-esteem and social support in the relationship between cyber victimization and subjective well-being.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was utilized. Participants included 250 gifted Turkish adolescents who completed measures of cyber victimization, self-esteem, social support, and subjective well-being. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test the proposed relationships.

Results: Findings revealed significant indirect effects of cyber victimization on subjective well-being through self-esteem and social support. Higher levels of self-esteem predicted greater perceived social support, which subsequently contributed to improved subjective well-being.

Conclusions: Self-esteem and social support are critical protective factors mitigating the negative effects of cyber victimization on the subjective well-being of gifted youth. The study underscores the importance of interventions targeting these factors to enhance the well-being of cyberbullying victims.