What is the impact on victims of hate crimes?
Another goal of hate mongers, and one at which they succeed, is to instill fear or terror in their victims. Hate crimes result in a disproportionate level of harm, which affects not only the individual, but also the victim?s community. Attacks are often particularly vicious, leaving entire communities feeling vulnerable and isolated. Individual reactions can mirror post-traumatic stress syndrome. Hate propaganda can lead to a negative self-image in targeted group members, and self-doubt, even to the point of self-hatred and a feeling of worthlessness. Individuals may try to assimilate or disappear as an identifiable group; but hate mongers would suggest that this is impossible. According to avowed racists and white supremacists, the minority traits remain as a contaminant of the society or pure race, and must therefore be eliminated to whatever extent possible. How well an individual or groups can tolerate such abuse depends on the strength of one?s ego defense mechanisms, group suppor
