SCARS Manual of Scam Psychology™

A Comprehensive Exploration of the Psychological Processes, Impacts, and Recovery Approaches Associated with Various Types of Deception, specifically including Scams, Fraud, and Cybercrime

The following is our ever-expanding collection of articles and publications authored by members of the SCARS Team

This manual is intended to be useful for psychologists, criminologists, sociologists, law enforcement, criminal justice professionals, policy decision-makers, care providers, and the victims/survivors of these crimes or their families.

This page will be constantly expanding – visit often!

The links will take the visitor to the website where the item was published.

For more visit: ScamsNOW.com and RomanceScamsNOW.com

Click Here for the SCARS Manual of Cognitive Biases

SCARS Manual of Scam Psychology on SCARS ScamPsychology.org
Susceptibility & Vulnerability to Scams & Fraud

Susceptibility & Vulnerability to Scams & Fraud

Vulnerability

Cognitive Biases

Cognitive Biases

Grooming Manipulative & Control Mechanisms

Grooming Manipulative & Control Mechanisms

Luring & Grooming

Manipulation

Control Mechanisms

Cognitive Dissonance & Immediate Effects

Cognitive Dissonance & Immediate Effects

Victim Impacts

Victim Impacts

During the Scam/Fraud

Immediately After the Scam/Fraud

Longer-Term Effects & Impact

Victimization Fundamentals

Victimization Fundamentals

Shame Guilt & Self-Blame

Shame Guilt & Self-Blame

Trauma & Stress

Trauma & Stress

Stress

Trauma

Traumatic Effects

Grief

Grief

Coping Mechanisms

Coping Mechanisms

Positive Coping Mechanisms

Negative Coping Mechanisms

Anger & Aggression

Anger & Aggression

Depression

Depression

Anxiety & Fear

Anxiety & Fear

Mechanisms of the Mind & Brain

Mechanisms of the Mind & Brain

Trust & Beliefs

Trust & Beliefs

Therapeutic Mechanisms and Approaches

Therapeutic Mechanisms and Approaches

Longer Term Effects & Issues

Longer Term Effects & Issues

Destructive Actions & Behaviors

Destructive Actions & Behaviors

Substance Abuse

Substance Abuse

Victim/Survivor Wellness & Mindfulness

Victim/Survivor Wellness & Mindfulness

Recovery Process

Recovery Process

Support & Recovery Approaches

Support & Recovery Approaches

Statement About Victim Blaming

Some of our articles discuss various aspects of victims. This is both about better understanding victims (the science of victimology) and their behaviors and psychology. This helps us to educate victims/survivors about why these crimes happened and to not blame themselves, better develop recovery programs, and to help victims avoid scams in the future. At times this may sound like blaming the victim, but it does not blame scam victims, we are simply explaining the hows and whys of the experience victims have.

These articles, about the Psychology of Scams or Victim Psychology – meaning that all humans have psychological or cognitive characteristics in common that can either be exploited or work against us – help us all to understand the unique challenges victims face before, during, and after scams, fraud, or cybercrimes. These sometimes talk about some of the vulnerabilities the scammers exploit. Victims rarely have control of them or are even aware of them, until something like a scam happens and then they can learn how their mind works and how to overcome these mechanisms.

Articles like these help victims and others understand these processes and how to help prevent them from being exploited again or to help them recover more easily by understanding their post-scam behaviors. Learn more about the Psychology of Scams at www.ScamPsychology.org (this website.)

Psychology Disclaimer:

All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only

The information provided in these articles are intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.

While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.

Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.

If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.

If you are in crisis, feeling desperate, or in despair please call 988 or your local crisis hotline.

SCARS Resources:

Opinions

The opinions of the author are not necessarily those of the Society of Citizens Against Rleationship Scams Inc. The author is solely responsible for the content of their work. SCARS is protected under the Communications Decency Act (CDA) section 230 from liability.

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