Susceptibility To Deception/Scams/Fraud With Victims Who Also Suffer From Mental Disorders – 2024

Susceptibility To Deception/Scams/Fraud With Victims Who Also Suffer From Mental Disorders

Helping Scam Victims and their Families Better Understand the Impact of Deception, Scams, or Fraud on those with Mental Disorders

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.
• Based on research by the United States National Institute of Mental Health

About This Article

Individuals with diagnosed mental disorders are not only profoundly susceptible to deception but can be even more vulnerable to scams or fraud. Mental disorders can significantly impact cognitive functions and decision-making abilities, potentially increasing susceptibility to scams.

This article examines the relationship between the top ten common mental disorders and vulnerability to deception, scams, and fraud, emphasizing affected brain functions. While it serves as Read More …

Overconfidence And Scam Victims’ Susceptibility To Scams – 2024

Overconfidence And Scam Victims’ Susceptibility To Scams

Psychology of Scams

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

Overconfidence poses a hidden threat, enticing individuals into the dangerous realms of scams in financial and interpersonal spheres.

Manifesting in decision-making and risk assessment, overconfidence leads people to overestimate their abilities, influenced by cognitive biases and reliance on mental shortcuts.

The brain’s reward system reinforces this bias through positive feedback, hindering objective self-evaluation. This overconfidence, pervasive in romance and cryptocurrency scams, blinds individuals to red flags and manipulations.

Understanding the neuroscience behind overconfidence involves recognizing cognitive biases, anchoring bias, illusion of control, and prefrontal cortex involvement. Mitigating overconfidence requires diverse perspectives, expert advice, critical thinking, and mindfulness, empowering individuals to make rational and informed Read More …