This study sought to explore, using descriptive research methods, the connection between individuals' past involvement with bullying and their tendencies to respond favorably as bystanders in cyberbullying incidents. It specifically focused on understanding how perceived harm inflicted upon the victim and empathy mediated this relationship. Drawing from theories of the bystander effect and relevant literature on bystander intervention, this research aimed to elucidate the interplay between past bullying experiences as a victim or perpetrator, perceived victim harm, and empathy. A total of 479 youths (53.4% female) aged 13 to 24 years (M = 18.19; SD = 2.37) participated in this study by completing an online questionnaire designed to measure the variables of interest and collect empirical data.
Bivariate correlations were initially utilized to examine the associations between the variables, followed by Structural Equation Modeling Analysis to investigate the serial mediating effect of perceived victim harm and empathy between past bullying experiences and bystander intervention. Pearson Chi-square tests and two-sample t-tests, revealed significant associations between the intervention and age, past victimization, perceived victim harm, and empathy. The SEM analysis revealed that past direct cyberbullying perpetration negatively affected perceived harm and empathy, while indirect perpetration had positive effects. Direct cybervictimization was positively associated with perceived victim harm and intervention, with empathy emerging as a critical mediator, and younger participants more inclined to take action. The implications of the study highlight the necessity for targeted interventions to enhance empathy and awareness among bystanders, with a particular focus on educational programs and victim support initiatives.