Model - Undue Influence Wheel
The Undue Influence Wheel is sometimes referred to as the Brandle/Heisler/Stiegel model (by Bonnie Brandle, MSW, Candace Heisler, JD, and Lori Stiegel, JD; Copyright©2006 YWCA Omaha). It is based upon domestic violence relationships, stalking and sexual assault and one of its assumptions is that the process of undue influence parallels these other situations. The suspected perpetrator is portrayed as a predator who finds susceptible victims, "grooms them," then uses a variety of tactics (isolation, fear, shame, etc.) to increase their control.
The factors are:
Keep Unaware
Isolate from Others and Information
Create Fear
Prey on Vulnerabilities
Create Dependencies
Create Lack of Faith in Own Abilities
Induce Shame and Secrecy
Perform Intermittent Acts of Kindness
This model is currently being promoted for use in criminal prosecutions, but could be applicable in some civil or probate proceedings.
Who is susceptible to undue influence? (The answers may surprise you.)
Other methods of assessing undue influence:
Elder Abuse, Financial Loss, and Undue Influence: FAQs.
Download articles and the "Undue Influence Worksheet" by Dr. Blum.
Click here to learn about finding experts on undue influence.
