After watching the current state of politics, it seems that many politicians have fallen into the victim mentality. It’s crazy to witness, especially their frailty and narcissism combined together. Back in the 90’s when I was involved in politics as a consultant, the victim mentality wasn’t as prevalent as it is now.

Exploring the relationship between victim mentality and politicians can be both confusing and enlightening. As noted by psychologist Brené Brown, politicians often use the victim card to gain empathy and support from the public (Brown, 2018). At the same time, this type of behavior reinforces a negative cycle of blaming others and avoiding personal responsibility. We have seen this with Donald Trump as well as many others.

It is crucial to understand that victim mentality is defined as the belief that one is a victim of circumstances or events beyond their control (Borum, 2004). This mentality often results in feelings of powerlessness and lack of control. In the political arena, this can show up as a tendency to deflect blame, make excuses, and evade accountability.

For example, a politician may argue that they cannot fulfill their campaign promises due to external factors such as an unfavorable economy or opposition from other politicians. This kind of language shifts the focus away from the politician’s own shortcomings and places the blame on outside factors. This allows the politician to not taking responsibility.

How does this affect the population and especially the constituents of the politician as a victim? Has this mindset increased?

It appears to be more common among many politicians today have used or are using the status of being a victim. They seem to lash out and play the blame game. When these politicians start blaming the system as to why their constituents can’t get a fair share, they project onto them the same victim mentality (Armaly & Enders, 2022). Moreover, the politician as victim elevates themselves “to feel a sense of superiority.”

However, this type of behavior can have severe consequences. By failing to take responsibility for their actions, politicians reinforce the idea that individuals are powerless to change their circumstances (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). This can lead to a sense of hopelessness and distrust among the public, who may come to believe that the political system is rigged against them.

When politicians adopt a victim mentality, they also diminish the experiences of actual victims. By using the language of victimhood to further their own interests, they diminish the pain of those who have experienced real trauma or oppression (Nussbaum, 2000). It’s important to distinguish between an actual victim and the victim mentality.

So, what can be done to interrupt this cycle? The first step is for politicians to acknowledge and address their own tendencies towards victim mentality. This means taking responsibility for their actions and being accountable for the consequences of their decisions (Brown, 2018).

Furthermore, the public can play a role by holding politicians accountable for their language and behavior. By calling out instances of victim blaming and deflecting, we can foster a culture that values personal responsibility and agency (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). This is something we all should be engaged in if we want to change both the culture and mindset of politicians.

Finally, the connection between victim mentality and politicians is a complex and confusing issue. But by recognizing the damaging effects of this cycle and working to break it, we can create a political environment that values accountability and empowers individuals to take control of their own lives (Borum, 2004).

References:

Armaly MT, Enders AM. ‘Why Me?’ The Role of Perceived Victimhood in American Politics. Polit Behav. 2022;44(4):1583-1609. doi: 10.1007/s11109-020-09662-x. Epub 2021 Jan 2. PMID: 33424069; PMCID: PMC7778419.

Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological bulletin, 117(3), 497-529.

Borum, R. (2004). Psychological perspectives on risk and safety assessment. Criminal justice and behavior, 31(6), 671-696.

Brown, B. (2018). Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. Random House.

Nussbaum, M. C. (2000). Women and human development: The capabilities approach. Cambridge University Press.