Moment of change
How Peer Relationships Become Toxic or Healthy Again: An Explanation Using Catastrophe Theory
- Start Time: april 2026
- Projektový Github
- Project preregistration
- Funding GA ČR: GA25-15697S
- Project status: ongoing
Abstract
School bullying stems from the dynamics of peer relationships, which can manifest as nonlinear shifts between healthy and toxic states. The project aims to study the moment of change in bullying dynamics using catastrophe theory, an approach borrowed from complexity theory. Quantitative measurements will be supplemented by qualitative interviews to clarify how adolescents themselves understand how bullying arises. This project will help us understand the key precursors and processes associated with the moment when a catastrophic change occurs in the classroom.
Main assumptions
The sample included first-year students from 11 selected high school classes. Data obtained through a combination of regular daily self-assessments, sociometric measurements, and physiological data will make it possible to monitor
moments of change for each student and for entire classes, thereby helping to better describe
peer-group dynamics that can lead to bullying.
Data
The final sample includes data from approximately 250 students
in the intensive measurement group (an 8-week EMA study) and approximately 300 students
in the control group, for whom baseline and follow-up surveys were administered.
Main findings
—WILL BE ADDED—
