Abuse Hijacks Victim Psychology Framework
Abuse manipulates victim psychology
This framework describes how abuse can hijack a victim's psychology, leading to a loss of self-esteem, shame, and a shift in their welfare trade-off ratio. It highlights six key tactics used by abusers to manipulate their victims, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, gaslighting, threats of future harm, and controlling behavior.
- Abuse can lower a victim's self-esteem and make them more dependent on the abuser.
- Abuse can create shame and self-isolation in the victim, making it harder for them to seek help.
- Abuse can alter a victim's welfare trade-off ratio, leading them to prioritize the abuser's wants and needs above their own.
- Recognize the signs of abuseIdentify the physical and emotional signs of abuse, including bruises, scars, and changes in behavior.Pro tipPay attention to subtle changes in behavior, such as a person becoming more withdrawn or isolated.WarningAbuse can be hidden, and victims may not always be willing to disclose their experiences.
- Understand the tactics used by abusersLearn about the six key tactics used by abusers to manipulate their victims, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, gaslighting, threats of future harm, and controlling behavior.Pro tipBe aware of the ways in which abusers can use gaslighting and emotional manipulation to control their victims.WarningAbusers may use multiple tactics to manipulate their victims, making it harder to recognize and address the abuse.
- Support victims of abuseProvide emotional support and resources to victims of abuse, including counseling, shelter, and legal assistance.Pro tipListen to the victim's story and believe their experiences, without judgment or blame.WarningVictims of abuse may be hesitant to seek help due to shame, fear, or loyalty to the abuser.
The woman is isolated from her friends and family, and her partner controls her access to resources and information. She is hesitant to seek help due to shame and fear of retaliation.
The framework is based on research in evolutionary psychology and sexual conflict theory, which suggests that men's use of violence and abuse can be an adaptive strategy to control and manipulate their partners.