Work

Questionable Mediated Effect of Peer Victimization on Prosocial Behavior in Adolescents: A Reanalysis of Guo et al. (2026)

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Using the covariance matrix reported by Guo et al., we reassessed the evidence supporting their mediation model linking peer victimization to lower levels of prosocial behavior among adolescents. We demonstrate that the empirical associations can be reproduced with high accuracy by an alternative latent-variable model that does not depend on the order of influence proposed in the original article. In this model, self-reported peer victimization, psychological capital, empathy, and prosocial behavior are conceptualized as indicators of a broader latent construct, namely core self-evaluation. The findings illustrate a fundamental issue in observational research: different theoretical models may account equally well for the same covariance structure. Consequently, correlational data alone provide limited grounds for favoring one specific explanatory mechanism over competing alternatives. Consequently, researchers should consider alternative specifications before drawing strong conclusions about underlying processes.

Source: Journal of Interpersonal Violence

DOI: 10.1177/08862605261502001

Authors: Kimmo Sorjonen, Bo Melin, Marika Melin

Institution: Karolinska Institutet

Language: English

Topic: Bullying, Victimization, and Aggression

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900