Large language model-facilitated interventions for enhancing psychological resilience in cyberbullying victims: Targeting self-esteem and self-compassion

Abstract:
Enhancing the psychological resilience of individuals who have experienced cyberbullying not only contributes to improved mental health but also effectively mitigates the negative impact of victimization. Interventions targeting self-esteem and self-compassion may represent a feasible pathway for strengthening resilience. Online interventions offer the advantages of scalability and timeliness, while the integration of large language models (LLM) can further reduce costs and enhance intervention efficacy. In Study 1, 59 participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a self-esteem and self-compassion dialogue intervention group (Experimental Group 1), a psychoeducational dialogue intervention group (Experimental Group 2), and a psychoeducational reading control group. Results indicated that both LLM-facilitated dialogue interventions (Groups 1 and 2) significantly improved psychological resilience. Study 2 replicated the design with a new sample of 105 participants and employed network intervention analysis to explore the distinct mechanisms underlying the two LLM-facilitated interventions. Results revealed that the self-esteem and self-compassion dialogue intervention not only directly improved psychological resilience but also targeted feelings of isolation, mindfulness, and self-esteem in social dimensions. Through the multi-dimensional interaction of self-esteem and self-compassion, it promoted further improvement of the intervention effect. These studies provide preliminary evidence for the application of LLM in resilience-focused interventions for cyberbullying victims. The findings demonstrate that targeting self-esteem and specific components of self-compassion can effectively enhance psychological resilience and mental well-being. Moreover, the research identifies novel intervention targets, offering both theoretical insights and practical implications for future studies.