Abstract
In this paper we conduct a two-phase study to investigate the role of justification mechanisms on cyberbullying intention. In Study 1, we begin by reviewing neutralization techniques in the Information Systems field and identifying key gaps in the literature. We then develop a scale to measure three neutralization techniques: justification by comparison, justification by postponement, and claim of relative acceptability. We developed a reliable scale for these three techniques through an iterative process, incorporating input from subject matter experts. Next, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were applied to examine the model's dimensions and validate its factor structure. In Study 2, we test our hypotheses on the relationships between the three neutralization techniques, moral justification, and cyberbullying intention, using structural equation modeling in a scenario-based survey. Our final 10-item scale, validated with data from 1232 respondents, demonstrates strong internal and external validity. Our main results indicate significant positive correlations between moral justification, neutralization techniques and cyberbullying intention. Additionally, as a post-hoc analysis, we explored various statistical conceptualizations of neutralization techniques, comparing them using model fit indices to identify the most theoretically robust model. This study contributes to the literature by identifying gaps in neutralization research, developing a rigorously validated scale, and expanding neutralization theory through empirical measurement of underexamined techniques in the context of cyberbullying.