Manipulation, whether covert or overt, happens all the time. From a fight with your partner to your boss pressuring you to take on another project, manipulation can happen anywhere and you may not even realize it's happening. Psychologist Rachel Hoffman gives some advice:
Signs of manipulative behavior
- Refusal to compromise
- Passive-aggressive behavior
- Extreme emotional ups and downs that affect relationships
- Isolation from relationships with family and friends
- Intentional damage to your self-esteem and confidence through hurtful comments and jokes
- Pressure to make quick decisions
If you are not sure if you are being manipulated, Dr. Hoffman suggests asking yourself a few questions:
Am I isolated from other relationships? A manipulative person wants your full focus and loyalty and will often take steps to create distance between you and significant others.
Am I under pressure to make quick decisions? Maybe you don't have enough information, or maybe something just isn't right. Someone who engages in manipulative behavior will pressure you to ignore those feelings and make quick choices.
Gaslighting ? Do you find yourself constantly questioning things that have happened? Do you constantly think about what happened in order to find out the truth? This can be a strong sign that you are being manipulated.
- Signs that your parents manipulated you when you were a child
- 6 Signs That 'Scream' Louder: 'Your Relationship Is Unhealthy'
- Just so you know: Here's what unites all the manipulators around you
- What is gaslighting and are you experiencing it in your relationship?
- Polite manipulators: How to get rid of them?
