The Pathways from Cyberostracism, Dispositional Hope, and Self-efficacy to Psychological Well-being among University Students: A Serial Mediation Study

Authors : Osman Hatun

Pages : 453-468

View : 39 | Download : 63

Publication Date : 2024-08-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The phenomenon of cyberostracism, characterized by exclusion and being ignored in virtual environments, can negatively impact mental health. Previous research has not adequately explored the impact of cyberostracism on well-being or the role of potential mediating variables in this relationship. Examining these mediating pathways can enhance our understanding of how cyberostracism affects individuals\' psychological well-being and may inform intervention strategies to mitigate its negative effects. This study aimed to investigate the links between cyberostracism, dispositional hope, self-efficacy, and psychological well-being. The participants consisted of 322 college students aged 18 to 40 (M = 21.14, SD = 2.56), selected using a convenience sampling method. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and bootstrap analysis were employed to explore how hope and self-efficacy might mediate the link between cyberostracism and psychological well-being. The results indicated that cyberostracism, dispositional hope, self-efficacy, and psychological well-being were significantly associated with one another. Furthermore, SEM and bootstrap analyses showed that dispositional hope and self-efficacy significantly mediated the link between cyberostracism and psychological well-being. In conclusion, the findings suggest that dispositional hope and self-efficacy may mitigate the adverse impact of cyberostracism on psychological well-being. These results may contribute significantly to counseling practices and educational research aimed at supporting college students\' psychological well-being and preventing the negative effects of cyberostracism.
Keywords : Cyberostracism, Dispositional Hope, Self efficacy, Psychological Well being