Trauma Pleasing and Appeasing – The Impact on Identity and Self Worth – 2024
Trauma Pleasing and Appeasing – The Impact on Identity and Self-Worth
Helping Scam Victims Understand One of the Trauma Responses that Can Contribute to Vulnerability to Scams
Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology
Author:
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
About This Article
Trauma can significantly alter an individual’s behavior, leading to patterns of pleasing and appeasing others as a way to avoid conflict, feel safe, or prevent further harm. These behaviors often become deeply ingrained, making it difficult for trauma survivors to recognize their authentic identity. Scam victims are especially vulnerable to this cycle, as feelings of guilt and shame may drive them to seek external validation.
However, trauma can have the opposite effect as well, leading to overassertiveness, hyper-independence, or emotional withdrawal as self-protection mechanisms. Understanding these dynamics is critical for trauma recovery. By building self-awareness, victims can identify maladaptive behaviors, set boundaries, and ultimately rebuild their sense of self. Through support and conscious effort, they can break free from these patterns and foster emotional resilience.
