The association between empathy and cyberbullying bystander positive intervention: a meta-analysis

This meta-analysis aims to investigate the relationship between empathy and bystander positive intervention in the context of cyberbullying. Through a systematic search and screening process, 20 papers that met the criteria were identified, resulting in 20 independent effect sizes and a total sample size of 16,700 participants. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 3.3 was employed for effect size estimation and testing moderating effects. Results indicate a significant positive correlation (r = 0.352, 95% CI [0.288, 0.414]) between empathy and bystander positive intervention in cyberbullying instances. Individuals with higher levels of empathy were more inclined to assist cyberbullying victims. Gender proportion, age, cultural background, and type of empathy did not significantly moderate this relationship. These findings underscore the importance of empathy in driving bystander positive intervention behaviors in cyberbullying scenarios.