Psychological Impact
Key Insights
Patterns Identified
Survivors consistently reported significant
psychological distress, including anxiety, fear,
and mistrust. Many described feelings of
isolation stemming from the persistent nature of
online harassment and the public exposure of
private information.
• Chronic Stress: The recurring nature of
Illustrative
Reflections
One participant, a university student, described
the overwhelming psychological impact of being
blackmailed online:
“I still don’t know how to solve my
issue, and I don’t know what to do
with the people who have violated my
privacy. There were no consequences,
and now I’m so scared to trust
anyone to the point where I am so
scared to take pictures and be
comfortable.”
threats and harassment led to heightened
anxiety and difficulty coping.
• Impact on Emotional Well-Being: Survivors
frequently expressed difficulty trusting
others, with some withdrawing from public
spaces, both online and offline.
Discussion
Psychological distress caused by TFGBV extends
beyond the digital realm, affecting survivors’
ability to engage with family, community, and
work. This harm is further compounded by
societal stigma and cultural expectations, which
often place additional social burdens on
survivors. As we explore the social impact, we
see how these cultural norms deepen survivors'
isolation and restrict their autonomy, creating
interlinked cycles of psychological and social
harm.
This vivid account underscores the long-lasting
emotional toll of TFGBV. The fear of trust
violations, loss of privacy, and the constant
anxiety of being watched significantly alters how
survivors interact with their environment.
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