Prediction of Victimization Based on Emotional Intelligent with Mediating Role of Loneliness and Empathy: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Abstract

Background: Currently, adolescent victimization is introduced as the most important social injury in schools. Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the role of emotional intelligence (EI), loneliness, and empathy in the prediction of victimization among senior high school students. Methods: A structural equation modeling approach was used in this study. A total of 365 students were selected via random cluster sampling from high schools in the second municipal area of Yasouj, Iran. These students completed Victimization Scale, Schulte Emotional Intelligence Scale, Baron-Cohen’s Empathy Scale, and Loneliness Scale. The design of the present study was descriptive and correlational using structural equation modeling. The study population included all adolescents in secondary schools in Yasouj from 2020 - 2021. A total of 365 subjects were selected using random cluster sampling and completed the research questionnaires. Finally, the data were collected and analyzed by Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling using SPSS software (version 19) and AMOS software (version 20). Results: The results showed that EI directly affected adolescents’ feelings of loneliness (-0.58), empathy (0.53), and victimization (-0.24) (P < 0.01). Additionally, feelings of loneliness (0.41) and empathy (-0.19) had a direct and significant effect on adolescent victimization (P < 0.01). Moreover, EI due to feelings of loneliness (-0.30) and empathy (-0.14) had an indirect and significant effect on adolescent victimization. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the model fits the data. Therefore, the awareness of teachers, parents, adolescents, counselors, psychologists, and other professionals to promote empathy and EI and reduce loneliness and victimization of adolescents can be helpful.