PERPLEXITY.AI Groups often portray themselves as victims or saviors because these narratives help gain emotional leverage, social cohesion, and political loyalty, while those in power rarely deliver true resolution—tactics that fuel ongoing distrust among citizens.[2][3][4] ### Victim/Savior Narratives in Politics - Political groups and leaders use victimhood stories to shift blame, rally supporters, and justify actions—whether for protecting their interests or fighting perceived injustices.[3][2] - Defining a group as victimized allows members to mitigate personal or collective failures and blame external forces, which reinforces distrust of authorities and the political system. [7][2] - Claiming savior status appeals to those seeking solutions, promising empowerment or dramatic change, but rarely delivers meaningful outcomes.[3] ### Why True Resolution Is Rare - Politicians and interest groups often thrive on unresolved conflicts and crises, as these perpetuate support, justify power, and keep audiences engaged.[8][3] - The frequent lack of real solutions stems from systemic incentives in media and government to spotlight problems rather than address root causes.[2] - Resolution may be intentionally avoided or indefinitely postponed, as keeping issues alive is a strategy to maintain influence and public attention.[8] ### Distrust of Politicians and Complaints - Individuals who perceive systemic victimhood or blame “the system” tend to show less trust in government, greater anti-elitist attitudes, and more conspiratorial thinking.[7][2] - The cycle of victim/savior rhetoric without genuine resolution has led to widespread political cynicism and skepticism toward both leaders and ongoing social complaints.[3] In essence, portraying victimhood or savior status serves key psychological and political purposes, but can foster endless grievance cycles that reinforce distrust and deflect genuine solutions.[2][8][3] [1](https://www.psypost.org/new-psychology-research-links-the-tendency-to-feel-victimized-to- support-for-political-violence/) [2](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7778419/) [3](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cultural-psychiatry/202202/identity-politics-and- victim-narratives) [4](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/beyond-cultural-competence/202301/why-extremists- and-hate-groups-often-play-the-victim) [5](http://www.parncutt.org/victim.html) [6] (https://www.reddit.com/r/CapitalismVSocialism/comments/1fin49c/is_victimhood_mentality_a_nece ssary_precondition/) [7](https://greggvanourek.com/victim-mentality/) [8](https://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/victimhood) 9/21/25, 11:50 AM PERPLEXITY.AI - Blank Page https://blankpage.im 1/2 9/21/25, 11:50 AM PERPLEXITY.AI - Blank Page https://blankpage.im 2/2