He is seductive and intoxicating. He has an unusual talent for ingratiating himself to others. He twists the truth and tells you what you want to hear but doesn't follow through. He manipulates and deceives. He justifies his behavior. He appears to be a humble hero but, in fact, is self-absorbed with a need to control how others perceive him. But nobody else sees what you see. It is all so subtle. You are not even sure you are right about what you think you are seeing.
You may be dealing with a charmer or a con artist. Con artists rob you of your time, energy, and money. Charmers are brilliant at disguising their abuse and can steal your youth, integrity, self-esteem, and even your very soul. Author and counselor Sandra Scott helps identify and distinguish between the two in her book, Hidden Abusers: Charmers & Con Artists. The book focuses on charmers and profiles case studies of these abusers, helping you discern threats to you in your relationships. From fictional characters, such as Scarlett O'Hara, to real-life scenarios, like O. J. Simpson, Scott provides profiles and gives insights into this abusive behavior.
Hidden Abusers also includes a recovery plan on how to move from being a victim to a thriving survivor. Scott draws from the Twelve-Step Program and the Bible to help you become the whole person God designed you to be. Written for individuals and for church leaders and laypersons, Hidden Abusers is a valuable resource for recognizing abusers and for healing from the mental, emotional, and spiritual trauma left in their wake. If victims are not believed and validated, and don't receive help, they are revictimized. They can be lost to the church.
