Gender Differences in Motivational Dynamics of Pro-Bullies and Pro-Victims: A Comparative Study in School Bullying

 Iqra Mubeen Bala , Niveditha Jadar and Komala M
University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore

Pages: 394-405

 This study examined motivational dynamics influencing bystander roles in school
bullying, with a focus on gender differences between pro-bullies and pro-victims. A
cross-sectional comparative design was employed with 373 students from four private
schools in Mysore City. Data were collected using the self-developed, pre-tested
Bystander Intervention Motivation Scale (BIMS), assessing extrinsic, intrinsic,
introjected, and identified motivation. Significant gender differences were observed among
pro-bullies, with females reporting higher intrinsic and identified motivation (p < 0.001).
In contrast, motivational profiles among pro-victims were consistent across genders (p
> 0.001). Pro-bullies primarily demonstrated extrinsic motivation, consistent with
assistant and reinforcer roles, whereas pro-victims exhibited stronger intrinsic and
identified motivation, reflecting empathy and moral commitment. Binary logistic
regression indicated that higher overall motivation (B = 0.33, p < 0.01) and older age (B
= 0.38, p < 0.01) significantly increased the likelihood of pro-victim alignment, while
gender (B = –0.33, p > 0.05) was not a significant predictor. These findings underscore
the need for interventions that strengthen intrinsic and identified motivation to encourage
defending behaviors and promote safer, more inclusive school climates.