Coercive Methods For Enforcing Compliance
A checklist detailing techniques used by abusers to enforce compliance, based on Albert Biderman's framework for understanding coercive methods.
Coercive Methods For Enforcing Compliance
Many people who have suffered abuse blame themselves for what happened. They might think, “Why did I let them do that ” or dwell on things they did or didn’t do. However, focusing on our own actions can let the perpetrator off the hook.
For this reason, it can be helpful to ‘balance things’ by paying attention to the perpetrator's actions and motivations. The Coercive Methods For Enforcing Compliance tool can help you re-evaluate where the responsibility belongs.
This exercise describes different forms of mistreatment, which may bring up difficult feelings or memories. Please be kind to yourself and go at your own pace. It’s OK if you need to take breaks or would prefer to complete it with the support of your therapist.
Overview
This resource presents coercive techniques used by abusers to manipulate their victims into compliance. Drawing upon the framework developed by psychologist Albert Biderman, originally aimed at understanding methods used by foreign armies to extract false confessions, this tool is applicable to various forms of psychological abuse. Victims of domestic violence and childhood abuse frequently report these methods being used against them, and discussion with traumatized clients can help to reduce experiences of self-blame.
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