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Associations between teacher and student relationship and moral sensitivity among Chinese adolescents in the digital age: the chain mediation effect of perceived social support and moral identity

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  • Shuping Yang

    (Liaoning Normal University)

  • Hengda Zhang

    (Liaoning Normal University
    Liaoning Normal University)

  • Xingchen Zhu

    (Liaoning Normal University)

  • Wencan Li

    (East China Normal University)

Abstract

The central aim of this research is to investigate the underlying mechanism between teacher and student relationships and moral sensitivity in adolescents, addressing a pivotal area as moral development significantly influences the overall ethical conduct and societal integration of young individuals. In this analysis, 4921 Chinese adolescents aged 12–20 years participated by filling out an anonymous self-report questionnaire. Our findings revealed that: (1) the teacher–student relationship has a positive relationship with moral sensitivity; (2) both perceived social support and moral identity served as mediators in the connection between the teacher–student relationship and moral sensitivity; (3) the teacher–student relationship indirectly influenced moral sensitivity through the sequential mediation of perceived social support and moral identity; and (4) problematic social media use does not significantly moderate the positive impact of teacher–student relationships on moral sensitivity. Based on these discoveries, the research has pinpointed potential factors and proposed actionable strategies to enhance moral sensitivity among adolescents.

Suggested Citation

  • Shuping Yang & Hengda Zhang & Xingchen Zhu & Wencan Li, 2025. "Associations between teacher and student relationship and moral sensitivity among Chinese adolescents in the digital age: the chain mediation effect of perceived social support and moral identity," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-04632-2
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-04632-2
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    1. Xiao-Pan Xu & Qing-Qi Liu & Zhen-Hua Li & Wen-Xian Yang, 2022. "The Mediating Role of Loneliness and the Moderating Role of Gender between Peer Phubbing and Adolescent Mobile Social Media Addiction," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(16), pages 1-10, August.
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