Herbert Scheithauer

Herbert Scheithauer is a University Professor of Developmental Psychology and Clinical Psychology at the Department of Education and Psychology, Free University of Berlin. He leads research in the Division of Developmental Science and Applied Developmental Psychology, focusing on adolescent development, mental health, and digital risks such as cyberbullying. His work is highly influential, with recognition in 2025 for being among the top 10 cyberbullying researchers globally.

His research interests center on developmental and clinical aspects of youth behavior in digital environments. Key areas include cyberbullying, bullying prevention, media socialization, mental health promotion, and evidence-based school interventions. He has led or participated in numerous large-scale research and intervention projects such as MEDIA HEROES, NETWASS, Papilio, Fairplayer, and BELLA, which aim to reduce bullying and promote resilience in educational settings.

The trends in his research, as reflected in his extensive publication record (available externally), show a consistent focus on understanding risk and protective factors in adolescent development, particularly in the context of digital media. His work bridges developmental theory with clinical application, emphasizing prevention and early intervention strategies across diverse populations.

• Among the top 10 cyberbullying researchers worldwide (2025)

Prof. Scheithauer has supervised numerous students and mentored early-career researchers, many of whom are listed as former employees in his research group. He has secured significant grant funding for projects like MEDIA HEROES (Daphne III), NETWASS, Papilio, and AAA-Prevent, often in collaboration with national and international institutions including the University of Konstanz, Justus Liebig University, Bielefeld University, and the German Police Academy. These grants support longitudinal studies, intervention development, and training programs for educators.

He leads a dynamic research team within the Department of Developmental Science and Applied Developmental Psychology, coordinating projects such as CODA, DynAge, LOGIC study, and Berlin Leaking Project. His lab focuses on data collection, intervention design, and dissemination of evidence-based tools like the Fairplayer training program. The research network includes interdisciplinary collaborations with experts in psychology, education, criminology, and public health.