The quality of peer relationships and empathy levels significantly influence cyberbullying behavior among Generation Z, according to a study conducted by Yosy Verahtania, Andik Matulesi, and Amanda Pasca Rini from Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya. Published in 2026 in the International Journal of Education and Life Sciences (IJELS), the study found that empathy acts as an important psychological mechanism connecting peer group relationships to cyberbullying behavior in digital environments.
The research was conducted amid the rapid rise of social media and digital communication among Generation Z. Researchers noted that the increasing intensity of online interaction has contributed to the growing prevalence of cyberbullying, a form of aggressive behavior carried out through digital platforms such as social media, online messaging, and internet-based communication channels. The impacts are not only social but also psychological, including stress, anxiety, and reduced self-esteem among adolescents.
According to the researchers, peer relationships strongly shape adolescent behavior. Supportive and positive friendships tend to encourage prosocial behavior, while unhealthy peer environments may increase aggressive tendencies, including online harassment and cyberbullying.
The study also highlights empathy as a critical psychological factor in preventing cyberbullying. Adolescents with higher levels of empathy are more capable of understanding the emotional impact of aggressive actions on others, making them less likely to engage in online bullying. In contrast, low empathy can lead individuals to ignore victims’ feelings and become more prone to digital aggression.
The research used a quantitative correlational approach involving 382 Generation Z respondents. Data were collected through psychological scales measuring peer group relationships, empathy levels, and cyberbullying behavior. All research instruments underwent validity and reliability testing before being analyzed using path analysis methods.
The findings revealed several major patterns:
- peer group relationships significantly affect cyberbullying behavior,
- positive friendships contribute to higher empathy levels among adolescents,
- empathy significantly reduces aggressive behavior on social media,
- and empathy acts as a mediating variable between peer relationships and cyberbullying.
The study further found that adolescents who grow up in warm, supportive, and respectful friendship environments tend to develop stronger empathetic abilities. Healthy social interactions help teenagers understand different perspectives, recognize emotions, and become more sensitive to the feelings of others in digital communication spaces.
On the other hand, peer groups characterized by weak emotional bonds, poor support systems, or aggressive social norms were associated with a higher risk of cyberbullying behavior. The research suggests that low empathy within certain social circles may increase the likelihood of online insults, intimidation, and verbal attacks.
One of the study’s most important findings is that the influence of peer relationships on cyberbullying occurs not only directly but also indirectly through empathy. In other words, positive peer interactions strengthen empathy, and stronger empathy subsequently helps reduce aggressive online behavior.
According to the researchers, the findings reinforce the importance of integrating social and psychological approaches in cyberbullying prevention programs. Schools, families, and educational institutions are encouraged to strengthen positive peer relationships while also fostering empathy development among adolescents to create healthier and safer digital environments.
The study is considered highly relevant as social media use continues to expand in Indonesia. Researchers suggest that character education, digital literacy, and empathy-building programs could become effective strategies for reducing verbal violence and online harassment among young internet users.
Author Profiles
- Yosy Verahtania - Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya
- Andik Matulesi - - Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya
- Amanda Pasca Rini - - Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya
Research Source
Verahtania, Y., Matulesi, A., & Rini, A.P. (2026). The Influence of Peer Group Relationships on Cyberbullying, With Empathy as A Mediating Variable in Generation Z. International Journal of Education and Life Sciences (IJELS), Vol. 4 No. 4, 474–479.
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