One of the most popular psychological terms that’s come out of the social media (mainly TikTok and Instagram) self-improvement boom, is “gaslighting.” Gaslighters, who are often narcissistic, manipulate people into doubting reality, often to avoid responsibility or maintain control over a person or situation.

A tactic that many manipulators and narcissists use to avoid taking responsibility for their misbehavior is known as “DARVO,” which stands for “Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender.” It’s a way for the perpetrators to take the criticism leveled at them and throw it back at the person they’ve offended. It often leaves the victim feeling confused or guilty about their accusation. 

The term “DARVO” was first introduced by Jennifer J. Freyd, PhD, in 1997. On the Disabuse podcast, she shared that she created the concept after observing what happened in her life when she tried to confront “wrongdoings.” She also saw the tactic being used frequently during the 1991 Congressional hearings regarding the confirmation of Clarence Thomas to the U.S. Supreme Court.

What does DARVO stand for?

D — The perpetrator DENIES they did........

© Upworthy