The signs of manipulation can be tough to spot.
Learn from psychologists what to watch for, and how to deal with a manipulator.
Maybe a coworker guilt-trips you into doing extra work, or you suspect a new fling oflove bombing.
What are the traits of a manipulative person?
Manipulative characteristics can range from extremely low to pathologically high, she says.
People who excel at manipulating others also have a strong desire for control.
executive coach and founder of Merging Path
Am I being gaslit?
Am I being isolated from other relationships?
Am I being pressured to make fast decisions?
Someone engaging in manipulative behavior will put extreme pressure on you to ignore those feelings and make quick choices.
Manipulators are also adept at reading and exploiting situations to reach those self-serving goals.
While not all manipulators are smart, they are exceedingly crafty and often charismatic, she says.
It is their duplicitous, self-serving nature that makes them so dangerous.
Other common things that manipulators say?
For example, lets say a manipulator convinced you to buy them an expensive gift.
executive coach and founder of Merging Path
What are the stages of manipulation?
Generally, a manipulative person will attempt to influence a target in four stages, according to Dr. Manly.
Setting strong boundaries is another important step to take after identifying the warning signs of manipulation.
Perhaps this person doesnt realize theyre being manipulatedits worth hearing what they have to say.
Frequently asked questions about manipulation
Who do manipulators typically target?
Members of minority or marginalized groups are also at a higher risk of being manipulated.
How do you outsmart a manipulator?
What should you do if you think youre being manipulative?
With work, even deeply ingrained behaviors can be altered, she says.
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