DARVO Response

DARVO, an acronym for "Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender," is a psychological manipulation tactic often employed by perpetrators of wrongdoing to deflect blame and invalidate the experiences of those they have harmed. This response typically unfolds in three stages. First, the perpetrator denies the allegations, rejecting any responsibility for their actions. They may claim that the victim is mistaken, overreacting, or even fabricating the incident. Following the denial, the perpetrator shifts to an aggressive stance, attacking the victim's character, credibility, or motives. This can involve accusations that the victim is being vindictive, manipulative, or trying to exploit the situation for personal gain. The final stage is the reversal of roles, where the perpetrator presents themselves as the true victim in the situation. By portraying themselves as being unfairly accused or targeted, they attempt to evoke sympathy and deflect scrutiny from their behavior. This tactic is particularly insidious because it not only undermines the victim's narrative but also serves to isolate and silence them, making it harder for them to seek justice or support. DARVO is commonly observed in cases of abuse, harassment, and other forms of misconduct, where the power dynamics are skewed in favor of the perpetrator. Understanding this tactic is crucial for recognizing and countering it, as it often serves to perpetuate cycles of abuse and impunity. It highlights the importance of a supportive environment that validates victims' experiences and holds perpetrators accountable. Awareness and education about DARVO can empower victims to resist these manipulative strategies and seek the justice they deserve.