An Insight Into Coping with Emotional Trauma After Becoming A Scam Victim – 2024
An Insight Into Coping with Emotional Trauma After Becoming A Scam Victim
Helping Scam Victims Better Understand Emotional Trauma Coping and Avoidance
A SCARS Institute Insight
Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology
Authors:
• Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
About This Article
The experience of being scammed can leave victims feeling trapped in an emotional cage, where avoidance of uncomfortable emotions and triggers severely limits their ability to live fully. Avoidance manifests in various ways, including delaying or avoiding reporting the crime to the police, steering clear of financial matters, social interactions, online activities, and even conversations about scams, leading to increased anxiety and isolation.
This withdrawal provides temporary relief but ultimately reinforces the emotional cage, deepening the trauma. To break free, victims can engage in strategies such as gradual exposure to feared situations, mindfulness practices, seeking support from friends, family, or professionals, and focusing on self-care activities.
These steps help victims confront and process their emotions, reducing the power of triggers and expanding their comfort zones, allowing them to reclaim their lives and move toward healing and recovery.
