title: Aversive Peer Experiences on Social Networking Sites: Development of theSocial Networking-Peer Experiences Questionnaire(SN-PEQ).
abstract: Cyber victimization is an important research area; yet, little is known about aversive peer experiences on social networking sites (SNSs), which are used extensively by youth and host complex social exchanges. Across samples of adolescents (n=216) and young adults (n=214), we developed theSocial Networking-Peer Experiences Questionnaire(SN-PEQ), and examined its psychometric properties, distinctiveness from traditional peer victimization, and associations with internalized distress. TheSN-PEQdemonstrated strong factorial invariance and a single factor structure that was distinct from other forms of peer victimization. Negative SNS experiences were associated with youths' symptoms of social anxiety and depression, even when controlling for traditional peer victimization. Findings highlight the importance of examining the effects of aversive peer experiences that occur via social media.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33124.
authors.forename: Ryan R
authors.initials: RR
authors.lastname: Landoll
authors.forename: Annette M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: La Greca
authors.forename: Betty S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Lai
keywords: adolescents; cyber victimization; depression; social anxiety; social networking; young adults