There is a concept in psychology called Crab Mentality. It is used to describe a certain group dynamic that seems to be nothing less than overtly dysfunctional and abusive as it keeps those wanting to escape trapped in its vise. Crab Mentality seems to have its origins in the Philippines where those who caught crabs for a living noticed a certain behavior among those crabs that were captured. Surprisingly, crabs can be left unattended in open buckets without worrying about them escaping. If a crab has the audacity to climb to the top of the bucket and freedom, the crabs at the bottom will reach up and pull it back in. In other studies, footage at the bottom of the ocean shows a similar situation. Once the baited crab pot hits the ocean floor, its only a matter of time before the scent of the bait draws crabs into its open door prison. There comes a frenzy in the pot as more crabs push inside for their share of the goods, and even when the bait is gone, more crabs join in because they seemingly dont want to miss out. What is interesting is that once inside, its like The Hotel California... theres no checking out. If a crab tries to leave, others will pull it back inside. If the crab is too persistent, the others will begin to attack it, and even kill it, eating its flesh afterwards. Though they could ALL easily escape, the crabs, in a sort of mob rule refuse to allow any to escape...even though there is nothing to keep them there and in the reality that they will all meet the same demise. There are many groups of humans who display the same behavior. Though the concept came from the Philippines and is commonly used, it is an obvious behavior all over the world, and most vividly for me in my own hometown of Huntington, WV. There are a few tactics humans use to manipulate, or maneuver someone who is trying to escape the trap. The first phase is usually mental/emotional. They will use guilt, or shame as a way of control, and if that doesnt work...threats. Sometimes the threats are a bluff, other times...horrifically real. Many people can be controlled with the first two. Guilt and shame play on the imagination of those trying to escape a situation with a great deal of effect. So, most of the times the person will shrink humbly back into the pot/bucket never experiencing freedom and actually repeating the behavior of the group. If guilt and shame do not work, then its time to up the ante to threats, either veiled or real. Many times the threats are veiled, never having substance behind them...but sometimes they are terrifyingly real. If you find yourself in this situation, only you will know the difference, and though the police are having a bad time with the media, they are there to help, and can save your life. For those wanting to escape from a dysfunctional family, you will have to fight against the crab mentality that has been a constant for generations. Its not an easy process, nor does it feel good as youre going through it. You will be made to look like the one who has problems...someone who has issues. Lies will be told about you and many will believe those lies. Your actions and your words will be misinterpreted and misrepresented. But you will be free. Free to choose your own destiny and not one chosen for you. Free from the curse of negativity and dark secrets and open to opportunity and truth. If you find yourself in such a situation, have the courage to break free and lead others to freedom. I hope this speaks to someone out there. This is part of the journey I am currently on. Love to all, and Merry Christmas
Posted on: Sat, 20 Dec 2014 18:45:43 +0000
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