For Family & Friends of Scam Victims: Unintentional Toxic Comments to Avoid – 2024
Unintentional Toxic Comments to Avoid
The Unintentionally Toxic Comments that Friends and Family, and Advocates Make that are Toxic for Scam Victims-Survivors and That Should Be Avoided
FOR ADVOCATES, FRIENDS, AND FAMILY OF SCAM VICTIMS
Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology
Author:
• Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, 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
Supporting scam victims through recovery requires sensitivity and an awareness of how certain comments can be unintentionally harmful. Statements that blame, minimize, or dismiss their experience can amplify feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation, often deepening their emotional wounds.
Phrases like “You should have known better” or “Just move on” imply a lack of understanding and invalidate their pain, making them feel as though their trauma is unworthy of compassion or attention. Overly simplistic advice, such as “Stay positive” or “Forgive and forget,” minimizes the complex emotional journey of healing, while comparison with others’ experiences can make victims feel insignificant.
