Cyberbullying Perpetration among Adolescents in Indonesia: The Role of Fathering and Peer Attachment

Cyberbullying perpetration has emerged as a serious problem among adolescents worldwide. Living in Indonesia, a patriarchal country with approximately 260 million people, adolescents are at risk of being committed to cyberbullying. Cyberbullying behaviour and associated variables, including fathering style and peer attachment, were examined to understand the interrelationships among the associated variables. Using exploratory research, this study collected data from four hundred and ten adolescents aged ranged 14–18 years old. Participants were recruited online through schools chosen purposively within Jabodetabek, West Java, Central Java, East Java, Sulawesi, and Sumatra and parental networks on social media. Results found that the Authoritarian fathering style was linked to cyberbullying perpetration. Secure peer attachment was negatively associated with cyberbullying perpetration, while Insecure attachment was significantly related to cyberbullying. Authoritarian style and Insecure attachment by peers were revealed as predictors of cyberbullying, and three forms of cyberbullying (Cyber Verbal bullying, Hiding Identity, and Cyber Forgery). Meanwhile, Secure attachment from peers appeared as a protective factor against cyberbullying perpetration. Interestingly, gender was revealed as a predictor for cyberbullying perpetration in which boys were more likely to commit cyberbullying than girls. This study highlights some key concerns about involving the father and peers in strategies to reduce cyberbullying among adolescents in Indonesia.