Being A Victim – Labeling Theory & What It Means For Victims Of Scams Or Anyone! – 2023 [UPDATED 2024]

Labeling Theory & What It Means For Victims Of Scams

When words evoke strong emotional responses they can mean many things, but most of them are not good. They can easily become triggers for unresolved and unmanaged trauma.

Authors:
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Vianey Gonzalez – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

Originally published in 2023 – updated 2024

About This Article

Labeling someone as a victim is simply a descriptive term, but how they react to it can reveal a lot about their emotional state. Some may accept it easily, while others might feel deeply ashamed, guilty, or even proud.

This internalization can lead to what’s called a victim mentality, where a person constantly sees themselves as helpless and blames others for their Read More …

SCARS Editorial Team2024-05-09T13:26:57-04:00May 9th, 2024|Categories: • PSYCHOLOGY, • CRIMINOLOGY, • VICTIMOLOGY, 2023, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|Tags: Crimonology, Labeling Theory, Psychology of Scams, Recovery Psychology, Scam Victim Psychology, Scam Victims, Victim, Victimology|

Helping Scam Victims Understand Cognitive Dissonance – 2024

Helping Scam Victims Understand Cognitive Dissonance

Understanding Why Scams Can Have Such a Profound Impact on Scam Victims

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

Cognitive dissonance in scam victims emerges when they confront evidence contradicting their beliefs about the scam.

The realization of being deceived triggers emotional distress, further impairing cognitive function. Chronic stress from coping with the scam’s aftermath also contributes to physiological changes in the brain, affecting areas responsible for higher-order thinking. This psychological conflict exacerbates brain impairment or “brain fog,” leading to confusion and difficulty in processing information.

Scam Victims Suppressing Trauma Or Avoiding Recovery And Healing 2024

Scam Victims Suppressing Trauma Or Avoiding Recovery and Healing

Scam Victim 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.

Article Abstract

Scam victims suppressing or avoiding trauma face profound consequences, emphasizing the crucial importance of recovery through direct confrontation.

This avoidance may prevent the prevention of long-term impact, perpetuating maladaptive coping cycles. Confronting trauma validates victims’ experiences, empowering them with understanding and agency over their narrative. It interrupts the cycle of avoidance, fostering healthier coping strategies and resilience. By acknowledging the dynamics of scams, victims rebuild trust in themselves, identify coping strategies, and prevent secondary trauma in relationships.