How to Recognize Common Manipulative Tactics

We have probably all had the misfortune of meeting these people. At school, or at work, Perhaps lived with one at some point of our lives. They leave you confused and angry, doubting yourself and your conception of reality. You feel betrayed and amazed “Why would they say that?”
”How could they do that”
While on many occasions manipulative tactics have developed as means of survival, you don't have to accept their behavior just because you can explain it.

Most common manipulative tactics

Gaslighting

 This is when someone tries to make you doubt your own reality, memory, or sanity by lying, denying, or twisting the facts. They may also accuse you of being crazy, irrational, or oversensitive. For example, a gaslighter might say "You're imagining things, that never happened" or "You're always making things up, you need help". Gaslighting can make you lose trust in yourself and your perception of reality. 

Guilt-tripping

This is when someone tries to make you feel guilty or ashamed for your actions, decisions, or feelings. They may use emotional blackmail, threats, or accusations to manipulate you into doing what they want. For example, a guilt-tripper might say "If you really loved me, you would do this for me" or "How can you be so selfish and hurt me like this?". Guilt-tripping can make you feel responsible for the other person's happiness or well-being. 

Flattery

This is when someone uses excessive or insincere praise to influence or persuade you. They may compliment you on your appearance, skills, or personality to make you feel good about yourself and lower your defenses. For example, a flatterer might say "You're so smart and talented, you can do anything" or "You're the most beautiful person I've ever seen". Flattery can make you more susceptible to the other person's requests or demands. 

Projection

This is when someone attributes their own feelings, thoughts, or motives to you. They may accuse you of feeling or doing something that they are actually feeling or doing themselves. For example, a projector might say "You're the one who's cheating, not me" or "You're just jealous of me". Projection can make you feel confused or defensive and deflect attention from the other person's behavior. 

Lying

This is when someone deliberately tells false or misleading information to deceive or mislead you. They may lie about their actions, intentions, feelings, or opinions to manipulate you into believing them or doing what they want. For example, a liar might say "I was working late last night" or "I agree with everything you said". Lying can make you lose trust in the other person and yourself. These are just some of the common manipulative tactics that people may use to control or exploit others. If you encounter any of these tactics in your relationships, it is important to recognize them and protect yourself from their harmful effects. You deserve to be treated with respect and honesty.