The Relationship Between Bullying Victimization and Adolescent Sleep Quality: The Mediating Role of Anxiety and the Moderating Role of Difficulty Identifying Feelings

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Bullying victimization is strongly associated with adolescent sleep quality; however, the underlying mechanisms between these variables require further exploration. This study aims to elucidate the psychological mechanisms linking bullying victimization and sleep quality by investigating anxiety as a mediating factor and difficulty identifying feelings as a moderating factor. METHODS: A self-reported survey was conducted among 1,407 adolescents in China. The survey assessed bullying victimization, sleep quality, anxiety, and difficulty identifying feelings. Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed on these variables, followed by the construction of a moderated mediation model. RESULTS: The results showed significant positive correlations between bullying victimization and adolescent sleep quality, anxiety, and difficulty identifying feelings. Additionally, difficulty identifying feelings was significantly positively correlated with sleep quality. Anxiety partially mediated the relationship between bullying victimization and adolescent sleep quality, while difficulty identifying feelings strengthened the relationship between bullying victimization and sleep quality. CONCLUSION: This study clarifies the psychological mechanisms linking bullying victimization and adolescent sleep quality, identifying anxiety as a mediator and difficulty identifying feelings as a moderator. The findings highlight the role of emotional factors in this relationship, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. This study underscores the broader significance of emotional regulation in reducing the negative impact of bullying, supporting school-based mental health programs and early interventions. By identifying key psychological factors, it provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and mental health professionals to promote adolescent well-being and healthier sleep patterns.