MELBOURNE - Rihanna is desperately trying to make a fresh statement about herself as she transforms from the girl-next-door to the bold and sexy lass.

Rihanna, who was the centre of much attention at last week’s Paris fashion Week, also made headlines with her topless shoot for the Italian edition of Vogue’s couture supplement in September.

The stunner’s new fashion may be an attempt to pep up her image as a sex symbol but experts believe it shows she is still traumatised due to her assault by ex-flame Chris Brown, earlier this year.

News.com.au quoted Melbourne-based psychologist Sarah Calleja as saying: “After a trauma people either go into victim mode, where they suffer for a long time, or they thrive.

“Rihanna is a thriver and is taking calculated risks and is on a firmly set path that’s all about doing her own thing.”

Rihanna’s new avatar makes her look fiercely independent, a departure from her earlier sweet, teenage image.

However, rumour has it that Rihanna has seduced Justin Timberlake with her new glam look and is responsible for his split with Jessica Biel.
And, Calleja calls it a normal part of her trauma recovery.

Calleja said: “Thrivers can inadvertently develop an insensitivity to others, who then get hurt if they get in the way.”

Speaking about Rihanna’s highly provocative and aggressive dressing style, Calleja added: “It’s extreme…. She’s sending a message that she’s the one in control now, and she’s on the right path, but by being so provocative, she’s over-compensating.” (ANI)