The psychological concept of “identifying with the aggressor,” where victims of abuse unconsciously adopt traits and behaviors of their abusers as a defense mechanism to cope with trauma and gain a sense of control. This process, rooted in childhood development and psychoanalytic theory, often leads to maladaptive coping, perpetuates the cycle of abuse, and results in long-term negative mental health impacts. Despite being a survival strategy, this identification does not protect victims but exacerbates victimization, causing internal conflict and complicating recovery.