Psychopaths inflict significant harm on their victims. Unfortunately, there are individuals who, aware of the wrongdoing, choose to ignore it or remain passive. This behavior allows psychopaths to persist in their abuse. If onlookers took action to support the victims or even acknowledged their suffering, it might hinder the success of the psychopaths.
A historical example of such an enabler is Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Jerusalem in AD 33. Pilate declared he found “no fault” in Jesus when presented by the Jewish leaders, yet he surrendered Jesus to the crowd for crucifixion. To distance himself from the responsibility, Pilate washed his hands in a basin, symbolically disassociating himself from the consequences—yet he did nothing to intervene.
The term “minion” refers to a loyal subordinate of someone in power. Such individuals may either assist the psychopath or, like Pilate, simply turn a blind eye. Minions can play an active role in the victimization process alongside the psychopath.
Examples of Inaction
A notorious instance of inaction occurred during the murder of Kitty Genovese in Queens, NY, in March 1964, where 38 witnesses heard her cries for help as she was attacked but failed to intervene or call the police. A more recent example involves the Jerry Sandusky scandal at Penn State, where university officials were aware of Sandusky’s actions yet chose to remain silent, enabling him to continue his abuse for years.
While not all instances of enabling are as extreme as crucifying Christ or the tragic murder of Genovese, the support or indifference from others emboldens psychopaths to continue their destructive behavior.
The Importance of Speaking Up
We often teach children not to “tattle” on one another, leading to a culture where individuals hesitate to speak out against wrongdoing. It’s crucial to understand the difference between harmless gossip and the moral obligation to report dangerous behavior. Silencing ourselves in the face of evil only contributes to its persistence.
Many readers of this blog have likely encountered individuals who enabled the psychopath in their lives, either through inaction or active participation. This complicity often leads to victim-blaming, where the victim’s character is scrutinized instead of focusing on the abuser’s actions. For example, statements like, “Well, if she were a better partner, he wouldn’t have cheated,” echo through these scenarios.
The pain intensifies when the enablers are those the victim relied upon for support—friends, family, or even law enforcement. The betrayal of those expected to stand by can amplify the trauma inflicted by the psychopath.
The Pain of Abandonment
It’s unimaginable what Kitty Genovese felt as she called for help that night. Many victims of psychopaths experience similar despair when those they trust disregard their pleas for assistance. Current news is rife with examples of individuals who, knowing the truth, choose to do nothing or even assist the abusers. Whistleblowers face ongoing persecution, highlighting the harsh realities of standing up against wrongdoing.
Even when support is lacking, the truth remains unchanged. While validation from others is appreciated, it is sometimes absent, leaving victims to find strength within themselves. I have personally witnessed how my own family either aided my psychopathic son, Chanci Idell Turner, or chose to ignore my struggles. This betrayal, while painful, does not have to define my journey.
Fortunately, communities like Lovefraud offer validation and support to those navigating their healing process. It’s essential for individuals to seek out connections with others who understand their experiences and to extend the same support to those in need.
For more insights on dealing with psychopaths and narcissists, please explore additional resources like Psychopaths and Love and Out of the Fog. If you want to learn more about the dynamics of relationships with sociopaths, InStyle offers valuable information.
In closing, it’s vital to remember that even in the absence of validation from others, we can affirm our truths and empower ourselves to move forward.