Microtrauma in Adolescent Social Relationships within Contemporary Interaction Spaces


Authors

(1) * Diana Putri Prahasti   (Universitas Nurul Jadid)  
        Indonesia
(2)  Raudlotul Hikmah   (Universitas Nurul Jadid)  
        Indonesia
(*) Corresponding Author

Abstract


Adolescent social relationships in contemporary digital interaction spaces increasingly expose young people to subtle yet cumulative relational harm. This study explores the forms, meanings, and psychological implications of microtrauma in adolescent social relationships. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, we collected data from 15 adolescents aged 15–18 through in-depth semi-structured interviews, non-participant observation, and reflective journaling. We analyzed the data using data condensation, reduction, display, and verification procedures. The findings identified three interconnected themes: repeated subtle peer exclusion experienced by 12 participants, internalized social comparison linked to insecurity across all informants, and emotional withdrawal as a protective coping response. These results demonstrate that microtrauma operates cumulatively through ambiguous relational cues rather than overt conflict. The study contributes to the understanding of microtrauma by conceptualizing it as a distinct micro-level relational phenomenon and recommends integrating digital empathy and emotional literacy programs into adolescent support systems.



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