The pain of deception: a devastating reality
Discovering that someone you have shared intimate moments with was, in fact, an undercover agent can be devastating. The Sira Center, which specializes in supporting victims of abuse and torture, has conducted an in-depth study with around twenty activists who have lived this experience, analyzing the psychological repercussions that these infiltrations have had on their lives.
Feelings of betrayal and confusion
Victims often experience profound questioning of their identity. Self-doubt arises from the revelation that a relationship they considered sincere was actually manipulation. This process causes emotional grief that includes sadness, anger, and guilt, with an impact that can last for years.
Worrying statistics
Assessments conducted months after the revelation indicate that an alarming 60% of those affected suffer from depression, and many have experienced suicidal thoughts. In addition, more than half of those surveyed have symptoms of post-traumatic stress, with 80% reporting significant effects.
Immediate reactions to deception
The first reaction to discovering the true identity of the infiltrator is usually a mental block, followed by a wave of anguish and anger. Many victims feel alone in their experience, as if no one can understand their pain.
Evolution of feelings
Over time, sadness often turns into a rethinking of their lives. Mistrust and insecurity become constant, and many have found it difficult to form new relationships because of the emotional wounds that have been left.
Effects of insecurity
Victims of infiltrations not only experience emotional damage, but also develop a persistent fear of being stalked or monitored. The feeling that their privacy has been violated leads to insecurity in their personal relationships and in their daily lives.
The impact on social participation
This experience not only affects the direct victims, but also discourages participation in community activities. What is known as the ‘chilling effect’ can reduce civic participation, creating a culture of fear that affects the whole of society.
Infiltration patterns
Reports from the Sira Center indicate that the infiltrators are often young officers who have just joined the police force. Their tactics include emotional manipulation and mimicry, creating a deep and false connection with their victims, who are attracted by their perceived similarities.
The trivialization of pain
Society often minimizes the suffering of these people, considering their experiences to be superficial. However, the emotional pain they experience is deep and lasting, and their experience must be recognized and validated.
The need for recognition and change
Failure to investigate and acknowledge the suffering inflicted is a source of retraumatization. Victims need to be given a voice and action taken to prevent these practices from happening again in the future.
The legal situation
The legal vacuum that exists around sexual infiltrations must be addressed. Current legislation does not adequately address rape by deception, leaving victims without protection or justice.