Proximity to the bully as a moderator of the relationship between present fatalistic time perspective and cyberbullying bystanders' reactions

Cyberbullying is a serious and growing public health issue linked to significant psychological harm. Understanding bystanders' responses is crucial, as these can range from ignoring or joining the bullying to defending the victim, and are shaped by personal, social, and situational factors. This study examined whether present fatalistic time perspective, proximity to the bully, and their interaction affect cyberbullying bystanders' reactions. An online experiment with 221 participants measured time perspective and reactions to a cyberbullying scenario, while manipulating the bystander's relationship to the bully. Participants were more likely to support the victim when the bully was a close friend rather than a stranger. A higher present fatalistic time perspective was associated with both greater support for the bully and, unexpectedly, greater support for the victim. Moderation analysis revealed that the role of present fatalistic time perspective varied depending on the relationship to the bully. When the bully was a close friend and present fatalistic time perspective was high, participants were more likely to remain passive. In contrast, when the bully was an acquaintance or a stranger, higher present fatalistic time perspective increased both the likelihood of supporting the bully and the likelihood of supporting the victim. • The online experiment explored cyberbullying bystanders' reactions. • Victim support was stronger when the bully was a close friend, not a stranger. • Higher present fatalistic perspective related to more support for bully and victim. • Proximity to the bully moderated effects of present fatalistic perspective.