Manipulation is a subtle but powerful form of control. Manipulators skillfully use different tactics to influence others and achieve their goals, but what happens when their usual methods stop working?
In such situations, manipulative people quickly adjust their behavior and change their approach to maintain control.
Family and marriage counselor Tina Fey shared insight into some of the most common traits and behaviors of manipulative partners when their usual guilt-inducing tricks no longer work. These strategies can be confusing and frustrating, but recognizing these patterns is the first step to breaking free from their influence.
They play the victim
When manipulators realize that guilt-tripping is no longer working, they often switch to playing the victim, says Fey. “They suddenly act like they’re hurt, misunderstood, or neglected. Their goal is to trigger your vulnerability so they can regain control. Remember — they’re not the real victim, they’re using this tactic to draw you back into the game,” she explains to Hack Spirit.
They shift the blame
"Manipulators almost never admit their mistakes. When they realize that blame doesn't work, they shift the blame to you or other people. This tactic is designed to put you on the defensive while they maintain control. It can be confusing and frustrating, but the important thing is to remember that it's not your fault - it's their way of avoiding responsibility," emphasizes the expert.
Use the silent treatment
If blame and blame shifting fail, manipulators often resort to the "silent treatment." They ignore our calls and texts or avoid us socially to make us insecure and anxious. “The goal is to make you think you've done something wrong. However, this is a classic manipulative strategy. Don't let the silence discourage you – be sure of your judgment and stand your ground,” concludes Fey.
Promo
Advertise herePrigozhin - Putin war
More
Celebrity hair trends you should try immediately

EmRata's black pants look endlessly elegant with her choice of sneakers

What will we wear this fashion season? New trends – but also the return of some old favorites!

Myth or fact: Does shaving make hair grow thicker?

The one thing children need for a happy and successful life, according to experts

How does your sense of smell change during the days of your menstrual cycle?

104.5m² comfort - Luxurious apartment with an attractive view for your offices

Invest in your future - buy a flat in 'Arbëri' now! ID-140

Apartment for sale in Fushë Kosovë in a perfect location - 80.5m², price 62,000 Euro! ID-254

Ideal for office - apartment for rent ID-253 in the center of Pristina

Buy the house of your dreams in Pristina - DISCOUNT, grab the opportunity now! ID-123
Most read

"Stay strong and don't stop smiling" - Getinjo's message of support for Gjesti

Ismajli to Newborn: I saved it from our parties – I did not leave a message of Vetevendosje on the monument

Two Rayo Vallecano players agree: We don't know why the goal against Barcelona was disallowed

Munich Security Conference chairman could not hold back tears during farewell speech

Sejdiu: Thaçi has read the declaration of independence, he has not proclaimed it

Elections, five key issues facing Germany's next chancellor