A Mixed Methods Investigation of Cyberbullying Behaviours, Early Maladaptive Schemas, Coping Styles, and Psychological Outcomes in Emerging Adults

The purpose of this research was to use Young et al.'s (2003) schema theory in the context of cyberbullying to explain the variation in psychological distress experienced by targets. Study 1 provided an in-depth understanding as to how emerging adults define cyberbullying; and Study 2 developed an instrument measuring the specific schema coping styles proposed by Young et al. The findings from both studies informed a model tested in Study 3, which provided empirical support for Young et al.'s schema theory where it appears schema activation and schema coping style affect the level of psychological distress experienced by targets of cyberbullying.