This article describes a consequence of adolescent malaise that is not well known: the false flags of abuse. A situation in which a young man falsely accused his father explains the meaning of this act, which seems to be the corollary of a pitiless affection. The author argues that such young whistle-blowers have a paradoxical need for support from the adult they are accusing.

Adolescence, 2015, 33, 2, 405-415.