Introduction: This study investigated the role of Dark Nine personality traits and self concealment in predicting cyberbullying, with feelings of inferiority as a mediator, among adolescents in Khoy.


Methods: This fundamental, descriptive correlational study used structural equation modeling. The population included all junior and senior high school students in Khoy during 2025–2026; 350 students were selected via multi stage random sampling. Data were collected using validated questionnaires for Dark Nine traits, self concealment, cyberbullying, and inferiority feelings, and analyzed with SPSS and SmartPLS.


Results: Dark personality traits, self concealment, and inferiority feelings all showed significant relationships with cyberbullying. The structural model revealed that dark traits (β = 0.39) and self concealment (β = 0.33) had direct positive effects on cyberbullying, while inferiority feelings were negatively associated with it (β = –0.46). Also, dark traits (β = –0.42) and self concealment (β = –0.35) had significant negative relationships with inferiority feelings. Indirect effects confirmed the mediating role of inferiority in the links between dark traits (β = 0.19) and self concealment (β = 0.16) with cyberbullying. All fit indices indicated good model fit.


Conclusion: Dark personality traits and self concealment contribute to cyberbullying both directly and indirectly via reducing inferiority feelings. These findings underscore the need for psychological interventions targeting personality modification and emotional regulation to prevent risky online behaviors.