Coercive tactics can indeed be used to make an individual re-evaluate the most central aspects of their experience of self. Coercive influences may employ various strategies to achieve this outcome. Here’s how coercion can impact an individual’s self-perception:

1. Manipulating identity: Coercive tactics may involve undermining or reshaping an individual’s sense of identity. This can be achieved by criticizing or devaluing aspects of their self-perception, such as their beliefs, values, or personal history. By creating doubt or dissonance about their identity, coercive influences can make the individual more susceptible to adopting new beliefs or identities proposed by the coercive group.
2. Imposing guilt and shame: Coercive tactics often utilize guilt and shame to make individuals question their self-worth or moral character. By emphasizing their perceived shortcomings or past mistakes, the coercive entity can create a psychological need for redemption or validation. This can lead individuals to re-evaluate their self-perception and become more receptive to the coercive group’s influence.
3. Dependency and reliance: Coercive influences may create a sense of dependency on the coercive entity for validation, emotional support, or a sense of belonging. By controlling the individual’s access to these crucial needs, the coercive group can shape their self-perception and make them more willing to re-evaluate their fundamental aspects of self in order to maintain the perceived benefits of belonging.
4. Forced confession or self-incrimination: Coercive tactics sometimes involve coercing individuals into confessing to fabricated or exaggerated wrongdoings. Through interrogation techniques, manipulation, or threats, the coercive entity can induce a state of self-doubt and make individuals question their own integrity, leading to a re-evaluation of their self-perception.

It is important to note that these coercive tactics are manipulative and potentially harmful. They undermine an individual’s autonomy, self-esteem, and psychological well-being. Recognizing these tactics and maintaining a strong sense of self-awareness can help individuals guard against coercive influences and maintain a healthy and authentic sense of self.

 © Linda C J Turner