What Is DARVO?
DARVO stands for Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender. It describes a pattern where someone who has caused harm denies what they did, attacks the person who raised it, and then claims to be the real victim. It is a common dynamic in abusive and coercive relationships.
DARVO was identified by psychologist Jennifer Freyd. It is not a diagnosis , it is a description of a manipulation tactic. If you have ever confronted someone about their behaviour and ended up apologising, doubting yourself, or feeling like you were the one at fault, you may have experienced DARVO. The pattern is disorienting because it reverses reality. Over time, it can erode your ability to trust your own perception. Therapy can help you recognise the pattern, understand its impact, and rebuild confidence in your own judgement.
Crisis and Emergency Support
If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services by calling 999.
- Samaritans: 116 123
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Crisis and Emergency Guidance
If you recognise this pattern and want to talk about it, book a free introductory call.
Related pages
/darvo, /coercive-control, /power-and-control, /contact, /crisis-and-emergency-guidance