Dealing with a manipulator can be a challenging and draining experience. Manipulators are people who use cunning tactics to control others and get what they want. Manipulators are often skilled at twisting situations to make themselves appear innocent while causing harm to others. They often use tactics such as guilt-tripping, gaslighting, and playing the victim to get their way. They can be hard to spot, as they often seem charming and friendly on the surface.
However, over time, their true motives become clear, and you may find yourself feeling trapped and manipulated. If you suspect that you may be dealing with a manipulator, here are some signs to look out for.
They use emotional blackmail
One of the most common tactics used by manipulators is emotional blackmail. They may use threats or guilt to make you do what they want, or they may try to make you feel responsible for their problems. If you feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells around someone, or if they frequently use phrases like “If you loved me, you would…” or “After all I’ve done for you…”, then you may be dealing with a manipulator.
They play the victim
Manipulators often play the victim to make themselves appear innocent and gain sympathy. They may exaggerate or invent situations to make it seem like they are the ones being mistreated. They may also blame others for their problems and refuse to take responsibility for their actions. If you find yourself constantly apologizing to someone or feel like you’re always the one at fault, you may be dealing with a manipulator.
They use gaslighting
Gaslighting is a tactic used by manipulators to make their victims question their own sanity. They may deny things they’ve said or done, or they may make you feel like you’re overreacting to a situation. If you feel like you’re constantly second-guessing yourself or like you can’t trust your own judgment, you may be dealing with a manipulator.
They twist the truth.
Manipulators are skilled at twisting the truth to suit their needs. They may lie outright or selectively omit information to make themselves look better or to hide their true intentions. Sometimes, they may also use half-truths or innuendos to make you doubt your own perceptions or to manipulate you into doing what they want. A lot of times, they also coat a lie so well it looks like the truth. When you finally find out it was a lie, you begin to doubt your own cognitive abilities.
They isolate you from others
Manipulators often try to isolate their victims from their friends and family. They may discourage you from spending time with others, or they may try to turn your loved ones against you. This tactic is used to make you more dependent on the manipulator and less likely to question their behaviour. If you feel like you’re becoming isolated from others or like you can’t talk to anyone about your situation, you may be dealing with a manipulator.
They use fear to control you.
Manipulators may use fear as a tool to control you. They may threaten to leave you, harm themselves, or harm others if you don’t comply with their demands. These threats can be very effective in making you do what they want, even if it goes against your own desires or values. More than anything, they get their high from the control they have over their victims.
They make you doubt yourself.
Manipulators often make their targets doubt themselves and their own perceptions. They may use gaslighting techniques to make you question your memories or to make you feel like you’re losing your mind. This can make you more susceptible to their manipulations and can make it harder for you to stand up to them.
They use charm and flattery
Manipulators often use charm and flattery to gain the trust of their victims. They may shower you with compliments or make you feel special in order to get what they want. If someone seems too good to be true or if they’re constantly trying to win your favour, you may be dealing with a manipulator.
Dealing with a manipulator can be a difficult and draining experience. If you suspect that you’re dealing with a manipulator, it’s important to trust your instincts and seek help if necessary. Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness, and don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.
