What is DARVO?
DARVO stands for Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender. It’s a tactic often used by individuals, especially those in power, to avoid responsibility for harmful actions. Psychologist Jennifer Freyd first identified this pattern in 1997 (Freyd, 1997). DARVO can happen not only in personal relationships but also within institutions, such as workplaces, schools, or organizations, where it is used to protect reputations and discredit victims.
How Does DARVO Work?
1. Deny:The person or institution denies the harmful behavior ever happened or downplays its seriousness.
2. Attack: They shift blame to the victim, questioning their credibility and accusing them of causing conflict.
3. Reverse Victim and Offender: The person or institution presents themselves as the true victim, claiming unfair treatment by the person speaking out.
How People in Power Use DARVO
People in authority—such as managers, teachers, or leaders—may use DARVO to avoid accountability. Institutions may engage in DARVO to protect their reputation, leaving the real victims feeling betrayed and unsupported by the systems meant to help them.
Why is DARVO Harmful?
DARVO can leave victims feeling confused, ashamed, or doubting their experience. This manipulation can discourage people from seeking help or speaking out again. In institutional settings, DARVO can deepen the harm by making victims feel isolated and retraumatized.
If You’ve Been Targeted by DARVO, We Can Help
If you’ve experienced DARVO from a person or institution, you are not alone, and it’s not your fault. We’re here to help you understand what’s happening, support you in processing your experience, and empower you to reclaim your voice. Whether through therapy, advocacy, or guidance, we can help you navigate these situations and find the support you need to heal and move forward.
Reference
Freyd, J. J. (1997). Violations of power, adaptive blindness, and betrayal trauma theory. *Feminism & Psychology, 7*(1), 22-32. https://doi.org/10.1177/0959353597071004