Impulsivity and the Fallacy Of Waiting a Few Seconds to Avoid Scams – 2024

Impulsivity and the Fallacy Of Waiting a Few Seconds to Avoid Scams

Impulsivity and Scam Victim’s Vulnerability: Understanding the Connection

Primary Category: Psychology of Scams

Author:
• 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

Impulsivity can deeply affect scam victims during and after a scam, making it difficult for them to recover emotionally and financially. The emotional manipulation that scammers use is designed to exploit impulsive behaviors, pushing victims into quick, unthinking decisions.

After a scam, victims often continue to experience impulsive reactions, such as rushing into new relationships or attempting to recover lost money through risky means, which only exacerbates their situation. Impulsivity also hinders recovery as victims may struggle with the patience needed for long-term healing programs.

Desperation – One of Many Normal Scam Victims’ Responses To Fear

After a Scam Ends Fear Becomes a Dominant Emotion that can drive Desperation or Despair

Primary Category: 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

Desperation is a profound sense of urgency and anxiety that arises when individuals feel trapped in a hopeless situation, such as a scam victim’s experience. It is driven by fear, hopelessness, urgency, and isolation, leading to intense emotional turmoil, impaired judgment, and risky behaviors.

While desperation can motivate and inspire creativity, it more often results in impulsive decisions and increased vulnerability to further scams.

Recognizing desperation involves monitoring intense emotions, obsessive thoughts, behavioral changes, and physical symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances. Taking action includes seeking support, practicing self-care, breaking down problems, avoiding impulsive decisions, and considering professional help.

Impulsiveness