An integrated model of ambivalence and deterrence of bystander inaction in delegitimizing doxing

Our study seeks to explain bystander inaction by guiding the regulation of delegitimizing doxing. We develop a contextualized research model by integrating attitudinal ambivalence theory and general deterrence theory. Our results innovatively uncover three congruence effects describing how positive and negative appraisals are combined to determine bystander inaction. Moreover, perceived SNS deterrence weakens the negative impact of attitudinal univalence on bystander inaction. As one of the pioneering empirical inquiries into delegitimizing doxing, our study contributes to theory and practice related to bystander intervention in delegitimizing doxing.