Psychological Resistance to Recovery in Scam Victims – 2024

Psychological Resistance to Recovery in Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims to Understand the Price They Pay for Trying to Over Control Their Recovery

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

The psychological resistance to recovery is often the greatest danger scam victims face, as it keeps them trapped in pain and prevents them from fully moving forward.

Resistance feels safe because it offers a sense of control over familiar emotions like guilt and shame, rather than risking the uncertainty of healing. Victims often cling to self-blame as a way of maintaining the illusion that they could have prevented the scam, which prevents them from accepting that they were not at fault. The fear of the unknown, particularly the unpredictable nature of recovery, can make victims hesitant to embrace the healing process.

Scam Victim Resistance In Support Groups Therapy Or Counseling Can Destroy Opportunities For Recovery

Helping Scam Victims Better Understand one of the Self-Created Barriers to their Recovery

Author:
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

This article examines the complicated topic of resistance in scam victims within or to therapy and support groups, exploring its challenges and consequences. It emphasizes the difficulty of discussing resistance due to its association with judgment and criticism.

Victims may resist addressing their trauma, fearing shame, judgment, or loss of control. However, understanding and overcoming resistance are crucial for healing and recovery. We distinguish between support groups and therapy, highlighting their respective focuses and structures. It warns against viewing support groups solely as social gatherings, as this may hinder healing.

Psychological Resistance