Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

persecution-complex

noun
/ˌpɜːr.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən ˈkɒmplɛks/
Definition
A psychological condition where an individual believes that they are constantly being targeted, victimized, or harmed by others, often without any evidence to support these feelings.
Examples
  • Despite having a supportive family, Jane often fell into a persecution-complex, feeling that everyone was against her.
  • His persecution-complex made it difficult for him to trust friends, as he believed they often conspired against him.
Meaning
The term refers to the feeling of being oppressed or harassed, which can lead to paranoia and an overwhelming sense of victimhood.
Synonyms
  • Victim mentality
  • Paranoia
  • Martyr complex