Violent media exposure and adolescent reactive online conflicts: The role of self-hatred and avoidance in mediating these conflicts, along with gender differences

Objective: To investigate the relationship between exposure to violent media and reactive online aggression among adolescents, as well as the role of self-hatred and avoidance in this process, along with any gender differences. Methods: A total of 1,204 middle school students were surveyed using questionnaires on exposure to violent media, self-hatred scales, acceptance and action questionnaires, and reactive online aggression scales. Results: Self-hatred and avoidance played a mediating role between exposure to violent media and reactive online aggression, forming a chain-mediated effect. Additionally, the indirect effects varied by gender. For males, avoidance alone and the chain-mediated effect were significant; for females, only self-hatred played a significant mediating role.