How to Recognize Manipulation in a Relationship
Manipulation in relationships can be an insidious problem. It can take many forms from subtle emotional coercion to outright physical and emotional abuse. It is important to be aware of the signs of manipulation so that you can protect yourself from this type of behavior. Knowing how to spot and avoid manipulation can help you keep your relationships healthy and free of abuse.
What is Manipulation in a Relationship?
Basically, it’s when someone tries to manipulate someone into doing something they don’t want to do. It’s a way to get power over someone and use it to their advantage. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a close relationship or not – it can happen to anyone. It’s also a way to hurt someone by making them feel like they’re not in control of their own emotions and thoughts. It can be anything from something you don’t notice or don’t think about to something that you plan and plan to do. It can be really hurtful and turn a good relationship into something that’s bad for both of you.
How To Spot Manipulation in a Relationship
In the majority of cases, the victim is unaware of the manipulator. The manipulator knows exactly where the victim is vulnerable and uses that vulnerability to their advantage.
They make the victim feel guilty about what they did. If the victim is emotionally manipulated, the majority of the time the victim will feel guilty for what they did.
The victim may give in to their partner’s whims and desires, even if they didn’t initially want to.
The victim loses their sense of autonomy, liberty, and who they are.
The victim’s thoughts and interests become second-rate.
The victim is silenced. It’s also known as “stonewalling” when the partner stops speaking to the victim or communicating with the victim when they don’t like something. The victim is silenced until the victim complies with their wishes.
What To Do if You Are Being Manipulated
In a healthy relationship, both partners are willing to sacrifice some things for the benefit of the other. However, if you consistently give in to your partner’s attempts to control you, it’s time to leave the relationship and stand up for yourself.
One of the first steps is to recognize how your partner is manipulating you. This requires awareness, self-awareness, and open-mindedness.
Then, you’ll need to have the courage to call them or speak to them about their behavior. Be prepared, though, as they may try to bait you again.
When you confront your partner, make it clear that you want to talk about the issue. Don’t let them try to spin the conversation in a different way.
Be honest and let them know how you feel. This way, they won’t try to manipulate you in any other way.
Set boundaries so that you don’t get pushed around. This allows the other person to know what you’re capable of.
