Through a Distorted Lens: Unmasking Cognitive Biases of Acid Attack Victims
摘要
The present chapter explores the cognitive distortions among the acid attack victims as these biased ways of thinking can hamper their coping processes. The chapter adopts the framework of cognitive theory of psychopathology to discuss the development of cognitive biases among acid attack survivors and its impact on their coping. For the present research 30 female victims of acid attack were interviewed about their post victimization experiences. The narratives obtained were then analysed using the six-step framework of Thematic Content Analysis proposed by Braun and Clarke (2006). Overgeneralization, blaming, fallacy of fairness, and belief in just world emerged as the major themes. The chapter also highlights suggestions to counter the cognitive distortions. The study has implications for mental health practitioners who can tailor their therapeutic interventions and support based on nuanced understanding of cognitive distortions of the acid attack victims.