Cyberbullying & Trauma in Kids | Effects & Support
Cyberbullying inflicts significant trauma on young people, even in minor forms, a critical finding from a recent national study. This research underscores the need to recognise online harassment as an adverse childhood experience. Discover how exclusion and online gossip can be as damaging as direct threats. Nearly 90% of students experience some form of cyber victimization, highlighting the pervasiveness of digital aggression. News Directory 3 provides crucial insights into cyberbullying’s impact. Learn that girls and younger teens are initially more vulnerable. Further, understanding the factors that mitigate negative effects is essential. Discover what’s next concerning long-term impact mitigation.
Cyberbullying’s Role in Youth Trauma More Notable Than Previously Thought
Updated June 18, 2025
Cyberbullying, even in seemingly minor forms, can inflict significant trauma on young people, according to a new national study. The research adds to growing concerns about adolescent mental health, suggesting online harassment should be classified as an adverse childhood experience (ACE), which can lead to lasting emotional, psychological, and physical harm.
The study,a collaboration between Florida Atlantic University and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire,examined the link between various types of cyberbullying and trauma in a sample of 2,697 U.S. students aged 13-17. researchers explored the prevalence of 18 different cyberbullying tactics, ranging from exclusion from online groups to impersonation and stalking, and their connection to post-traumatic stress symptoms.
The findings, published in BMC Public Health, revealed that cyberbullying is widespread and strongly associated with post-traumatic stress. Surprisingly, exclusion and online gossip were found to be as damaging as explicit threats. Almost 90% of students reported experiencing at least one form of cyber victimization, highlighting the pervasiveness of digital aggression.
“As our research clearly shows, cyberbullying in any form — whether it’s exclusion from a group chat or direct threats — can lead to significant trauma in youth,” said Sameer Hinduja, Ph.D., lead author.
Hinduja added that no single type of cyberbullying was more harmful than others, emphasizing that seemingly less serious behaviors should not be dismissed. the study also indicated that girls and younger teens are initially more vulnerable to traumatic symptoms, but the overall amount of cyberbullying experienced was the most critical factor, accounting for 32% of the differences in trauma levels.
Justin Patchin, Ph.D., co-author and professor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, also contributed to the research.
What’s next
Further research is needed to identify protective factors, such as strong family support and emotional resilience, that can mitigate the negative effects of online victimization. Understanding the long-term impact of cyberbullying, whether its effects diminish or persist into adulthood, is also crucial.