In
theory, everybody is susceptible to undue influence; therefore the
questions should be:
1)
Is a particular person more
susceptible to undue influence than other people?
2)
What factors make this
particular person vulnerable?
The
basic way to begin to assess vulnerability is to use the
"biopsychosocial" approach. That
is, consider the person's biological (diseases, injuries, drugs, etc.),
psychological (character traits, relationships, etc.), and social
issues (culture, religion, education, finances, support networks, etc.).
The
following are some of the common issues that increase a person's
vulnerability, and therefore susceptibility to undue influence:
1.
Anything that reduces or
impairs cognition (dementia,
intoxication, brain injury, etc.).
2.
Anything that reduces or
impairs mood control.
3.
Reduced mobility
4.
Recent or significant
personal losses
5.
A submissive – or
domineering – personality. A
strong-willed, but even-handed person is the most difficult to
manipulate.
6.
Anxiety or depression
7.
Little or no social contacts
A
full evaluation will consider dozens of variables.
