Cyberbullying Trauma vs Physical Assault Trauma

Abstract

Trauma traditionally originates from physical threats to safety; however, emergent digital harm introduces psychological injuries without physical contact. Cyberbullying can induce trauma symptoms similar to physical assault, including anxiety, avoidance, dissociation, and long-term emotional impairment. This paper compares trauma outcomes from cyberbullying and physical assault through neurobiological, psychological, and social frameworks. Using a hypothetical cross-country dataset (USA, India, Spain), the study evaluates symptom severity, perceived threat, social isolation, and recovery factors. Findings indicate that while physical assault causes acute physiological and sensory trauma, cyberbullying produces prolonged psychological harm due to persistent exposure, digital permanence, public humiliation, and identity erosion. A dual-framework intervention model is proposed.