However, when problems arise, such as manipulative behavior, they need to be addressed immediately.
Learn more about the signs, causes, and coping strategies for manipulative behavior.
Characteristics of Manipulative Behavior
Manipulative behavior can be done consciously or subconsciously with ill or good intentions.
urbazon/E+/Getty
It is a human trait, which means everyone has done something manipulative before.
The tactics can be overt or subtle.
Some signs of manipulative behavior include:
Manipulators have poor boundariesand experience difficulty healthily communicating their needs.
They use these tactics to confuse you into giving up your power.
Types of Manipulative Behavior
Manipulative behavior and emotional manipulation go hand-in-hand.
Understanding the tactics and signs can help you avoid the detrimental effects on your emotional well-being and relationships.
Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse that makes victims feel like their realities are made up.
This kind ofemotional abusecan cause someone to question their own sanity.
Passive-Aggression
Passive-aggressive people are indirect, but it is still a form of aggression.
Research shows that passive aggression is adefense mechanismfor emotionally immature people.
These are red flags.
Love bombing may be a sign ofnarcissistic personality disorderorunhealthy attachment styles.
Causes of Manipulative Behavior
People use manipulation to hold undue power over others.
This behavior differs from healthy forms of social influence because there’s no equitable exchange between individuals.
One person is exploiting the other for personal gain.
Dealing with this toxic behavior can become exhausting.
Treatment for those with manipulative behaviors depends on the root of the issue.
Therapy may be necessary if a mental health issue causes it.
Coping With Manipulative Behavior
Dealing with manipulative people is exhausting regardless of their role in your life.
Learn to trust your gut when confronted with manipulative behavior.
Be careful when deciding to confront someone.
Take care of yourself and make the healthiest and safest choices for you.
APA dictionary of psychology.Manipulation.
Sweet PL.The sociology of gaslighting.Am Sociol Rev.
2013;28(5):804-821. doi:10.1891/0886-6708.vv-d-12-00041
APA Dictionary of Psychology.Passive-aggressive.
2019;25:26-30. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2018.02.008
Brune M.Borderline personality disorder: Why fast and furious?EMPH.
2019;9(2).
