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Why Donald Trump Plays the Blame Game: Insights from Psychology

2025-07-11

Author: Sophie

The Legacy of Accountability in Leadership

Long before today's political theatrics, President Harry S. Truman embodied accountability with a simple motto: "The buck stops here!" This phrase has become synonymous with true leadership, a reminder that those in power must own their decisions, both good and bad. Truman’s spirit of responsibility contrasts sharply with more modern approaches.

Trump’s Leadership Style: Credit or Blame?

Fast forward to today, and we witness a dramatic shift in presidential accountability under Donald Trump. While he eagerly claims credit for successes—whether it’s economic advances or diplomatic deals—he swiftly shifts any failures onto others. This pattern is not just a political stance; it reveals deeper psychological strategies at play.

The Blame Game: A Strategic Move?

Trump often expresses surprise or feeling "blindsided" by outcomes he disapproves of, quickly attributing the blame to subordinates. Recent controversies, like the temporary halt of weapon shipments to Ukraine, have shown this dynamic in action. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a staunch Trump ally, found himself on the receiving end of criticism, illustrating the mechanism through which Trump navigates unpopular decisions.

A Dangerous Dance of Delegation

Having loyalists in key positions serves a dual purpose: they carry out potentially contentious decisions while Trump maintains plausible deniability. This calculated distancing allows him to uphold an image of strong leadership without accepting the fallout of missteps. High-stakes reversals of his subordinates' decisions often take place in public forums, allowing Trump to reclaim authority and showcase decisiveness.

The Psychological Underpinnings of Avoiding Accountability

Psychological theories suggest that sidestepping accountability may offer significant emotional benefits. Successfully navigating perceived failures by externalizing blame can bolster resilience and self-perception. However, this behavior is often linked to narcissistic traits. Such individuals may view themselves as superior, fostering a culture of unaccountability.

The Role of Personality in Accountability

Research shows that certain personality traits correlate with the likelihood of deflecting responsibility. Narcissists, for example, often refuse to acknowledge faults to protect their inflated self-image. Machiavellian personalities may also evade accountability, wielding blame as a manipulative tool to further their interests. Additionally, those with low conscientiousness are less inclined to admit their roles in failures, opting instead to seek external scapegoats.

The Sycophants Surrounding Trump

Trump’s circle appears to be filled with loyal supporters who not only uplift his image but also absorb blame when things go awry. This dynamic raises questions about personal accountability in leadership and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their power and position. Is this merely a political tactic, or does it reveal a more profound cultural issue regarding responsibility within leadership?