Presenter(s)

• Jerica Knox, North Carolina State University

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the complex relations between two known predictors of bystander decisions in bullying incidents—empathy and family contextual factors—and bystander help-seeking in two preferred choices (i.e. adults and peers). In particular, we examined the mediating role of empathy on the relation between family support and bystander help-seeking in 826 adolescents in the 6th and 9th grade (49.9% female) using six bullying/acts of aggression scenarios. Results indicated that empathy served as a partial mediator for the relationship, suggesting that both empathy and the family context can play a role in bystander decisions to intervene. Results suggest emphasizing home-school collaboration in bullying prevention programs in order to maximize efforts of bystanders.