Structural Relationship Between Social Comparison and Bullying with the Experience of Schadenfreude Considering the Mediating Role of Social Dominance Orientation in Medical Residents
Keywords:
Schadenfreude, Social Comparison, Workplace Bullying, Social Dominance Orientation, Medical ResidentsAbstract
The present study aimed to examine the structural relationships between social comparison and bullying with schadenfreude experience, considering the mediating role of social dominance orientation among medical residents This study employed a descriptive–analytical design using structural equation modeling with a partial least squares (PLS-SEM) approach. The statistical population consisted of all medical residents (N = 177) at Rasul Akram Hospital affiliated with Iran University of Medical Sciences in 2025, from which a final sample of 73 participants was selected using stratified random sampling based on academic year and specialty. Data were collected using standardized self-report instruments, including the Social Comparison Scale, Workplace Bullying Questionnaire, Schadenfreude Scale, and Social Dominance Orientation Scale, along with a demographic questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS-26 and SmartPLS-3, including descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and evaluation of measurement and structural models through reliability, validity, and path analysis indices. The results indicated that social comparison had a significant positive effect on schadenfreude experience (β = 0.337, t = 2.96, p = 0.003), and social dominance orientation also significantly predicted schadenfreude (β = 0.340, t = 2.37, p = 0.018). However, the direct effect of bullying on schadenfreude was not statistically significant (β = 0.258, t = 1.80, p = 0.070). Additionally, neither social comparison (β = 0.147, t = 1.34, p = 0.180) nor bullying (β = 0.231, t = 0.92, p = 0.358) significantly predicted social dominance orientation. The indirect effects of social comparison and bullying on schadenfreude through social dominance orientation were not significant, indicating the absence of a mediating effect. The findings suggest that schadenfreude among medical residents is primarily influenced by social comparison processes and individual differences in social dominance orientation, while bullying does not exert a significant direct or indirect effect. These results highlight the importance of cognitive-evaluative and ideological factors over situational interpersonal stressors in explaining counter-empathic emotional responses within professional medical environments.
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