To examine the applicability of general strain theory (GST) for adolescent cyber deviance, this study examined how ineffective parenting practices affect adolescent cyber deviance, focusing on the mediating role of negative emotions. Using a South nationally representative and longitudinal Korean adolescent sample (n = 2,145), the current study employs Generalized Structural Equation Modeling (GSEM) to investigate the mediating role of depression and aggression between exposure to ineffective parenting practices (i.e., weak supervision, inconsistent parenting, and low warmth) and adolescent cyber deviance. The findings reveal that both depression and aggression significantly mediate the effects of exposure to ineffective parenting practices on adolescent cyber deviance. Based on these results, the theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Plain Language Summary
How Harsh, Inconsistent, and Unresponsive Parenting Increases Cyber Deviance Through Juvenile Depression and Aggression
This study examined how parenting practices influence juveniles’ involvement in cyber deviance, such as online bullying or rule-breaking. Using survey data from Korean adolescents, the research found that harsh, inconsistent, or unresponsive parenting increased the risk of online misbehavior. Depression and aggression helped explain this link, showing that parenting shapes emotions that may lead to cyber deviance. These findings highlight the importance of supportive parenting in preventing harmful online behaviors.
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