Decision-Making Test For Scam Victims

Please Note:

This self-test was developed by the scientists and psychologists at the SCARS Institute based on our experience interacting with very large numbers of scam victims. This is not a diagnosis of a mental condition. It is simply to give you an awareness of the subject. We recommend that you contact a mental healthcare professional, such as a counselor or therapist to explore this further.

Shame Self-Assessment Test For Scam Victims

Scam Victim Shame Self-Assessment Test

A self-assessment test designed for scam victims to help determine if they feel substantial shame because of the scam:

Instructions:

Read each statement and select the response that best reflects or that you agree with your feelings or behaviors. Be honest with yourself for the most accurate assessment.

Scale:

  • 1 – Strongly Disagree
  • 2 – Disagree
  • 3 – Neutral
  • 4 – Agree
  • 5 – Strongly Agree

Self-Assessment Test: Evaluating Feelings of Shame Post-Scam

Shame Indicators:

1: I often feel embarrassed when I think about being scammed.(Required)
2: I avoid talking about the scam because I feel ashamed.(Required)
3: I blame myself for falling victim to the scam.(Required)
4: I feel that others judge me negatively because of the scam.(Required)
5: I believe the scam happened because of my personal flaws or weaknesses.(Required)
6: I frequently replay the events of the scam in my mind, feeling humiliated.(Required)
7: I think less of myself because I was scammed.(Required)
8: I feel like a failure because I didn't see the scam coming.(Required)
9: I worry that others see me as gullible or naive because of the scam.(Required)
10: I often think, “How could I have been so stupid?”(Required)

Finish

Please Select Your Gender(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Scoring Your Self-Assessment:

Add up your scores for each statement.

  • 10-20: You have low levels of shame associated with the scam. You might have a healthy perspective on the incident and are less likely to blame yourself.
  • 21-30: You have moderate levels of shame. While you may occasionally blame yourself, you also have moments of understanding that the scam was not your fault.
  • 31-40: You have high levels of shame. You often blame yourself and feel embarrassed about the scam, which might be affecting your self-esteem and interactions with others.
  • 41-50: You have very high levels of shame. You frequently experience intense feelings of self-blame and embarrassment, which could be significantly impacting your mental health and recovery process.

Reflection:

Regardless of your score, it’s important to remember that falling victim to a scam is not a reflection of your intelligence or worth. Scammers are skilled manipulators who prey on human vulnerabilities. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional to discuss your feelings and work on building a more compassionate understanding of your experience.

Find a counselor or therapist here: counseling.AgainstScams.org

Shame Self-Assessment Test Copyright © 2024 SCARS

Psychology Disclaimer:

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

The information provided in these articles is 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:

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