investigating the mediating role of impulsivity between antisocial personality traits and cyberbullying: a structural equation model

Background: cyberbullying is a growing concern in the digital age, especially among college students, where it can lead to significant psychological and social consequences. understanding the factors that contribute to cyberbullying behavior is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. objectives: this study investigated the mediating role of impulsivity in the relationship between antisocial personality traits and cyberbullying among college students. methods: using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 1,197 students in tehran universities within 8 months. participants completed the s-upps-p impulsive behavior scale, the psychopathic personality traits scale, and the cyberbullying experience survey (ces). structural equation modeling (sem) was employed to analyze the data, chosen for its ability to test complex mediation models and assess model fit using normed fit index (nfi), comparative fit index (cfi), and root mean square error of approximation (rmsea) indices. results: results indicated a good model fit (nfi = 0.95, cfi = 0.97, rmsea = 0.04). antisocial traits significantly predicted cyberbullying (β = 0.32, p < 0.001) and impulsivity (β = 0.45, p < 0.001), while impulsivity also directly predicted cyberbullying (β = 0.28, p < 0.001). impulsivity partially mediated the relationship between antisocial traits and cyberbullying (β = 0.13, p < 0.01), with a significant total effect (β = 0.45, p < 0.001). conclusions: these findings suggest that both antisocial traits and impulsivity are key predictors of cyberbullying, with impulsivity playing a mediating role. interventions targeting impulsivity (e.g., self-regulation training) and antisocial traits (e.g., empathy-building programs) may help reduce cyberbullying. additionally, university-based workshops and peer-led educational initiatives focusing on positive online behavior and conflict resolution skills could further mitigate cyberbullying. future research should continue to explore other potential mediators, such as social support and self-esteem, to enhance intervention strategies. future research should explore additional mediators, such as social support and self-esteem, to further understand cyberbullying dynamics.