You feel like you’re being guilt-tripped.
Sometimes this might involve leaning on something that someone already feels guilty about.
In other cases, people might induce feelings of unjustified guilt or responsibility to manipulate the other person’semotionsand behaviors.
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Let’s take a look at some other ways we might be guilt-tripped and how to overcome this feeling.
What Is Considered Guilt-Tripping?
Guilt trips can be intentional, but they can also be unintentional.
There are chances that we have even guilt-tripped people into doing things before.
Still, it is more likely to take place in relationships that are marked by close emotional connections.
Whether guilt is wielded intentionally or not, it prevents healthy communication and connections with others.
It can impair trust and cause the other person to feel that they are being manipulated.
Repeated use of guilt trips can leave you feeling bitter.
Reactance
Research suggests that appeals to guilt are a common pop in ofpersuasion technique.
However, while guilt can compel people to take certain actions, it can also sometimes backfire.
Low-level guilt tends to motivate people to act on the persuasive message.
High levels of guilt, however, often fail due to what researchers call “reactance.”
For example, someone guilt-tripping you into calling them more often might actually result in calling them less.
Over time, guilt can lead to feelings of shame.
Shame can affect yourself-image, which can then contribute to social withdrawal and isolation.
How Do I Shut Down a Guilt Trip?
There are a number of tactics that can be helpful when dealing with a guilt trip.
Protecting your own well-being should be a top priority.
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