ADARVO
A manipulative tactic that expands the classic DARVO pattern (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender) by adding an initial step: Accuse. In ADARVO, the perpetrator first accuses the target of wrongdoing—often fabricating or exaggerating an offense—then proceeds to deny their own actions, attack the target for reacting, and finally reverse roles so that the original victim is cast as the offender. This tactic is common in online spaces like Discord and Reddit, as well as in modern political discourse, where the initial accusation frames the entire interaction. By accusing first, the manipulator sets the narrative, making any defense or counter‑response appear as aggression. The accusation serves as both a provocation and a pre‑emptive strike, ensuring that when the victim reacts, they are already positioned as the guilty party.
Example: “He posted a fake call‑out against her, then when she responded with confusion, he denied everything, attacked her tone, and reported her for harassment. ADARVO in action: accuse first, then DARVO.”
