Manipulation happens when a person tries to exploit or control someone else’s decisions, actions, or emotions.
Manipulation can take many forms. It is more difficult to spot than other red flags because it is often expressed in subtle and/or passive-aggressive ways. It can show up in the form of possessiveness, neediness, guilting, volatility, or threats.
You know you are being manipulated if:
Your partner tries to convince you to do things you don't feel comfortable doing
Your partner ignores you if they don't get their way
Your partner uses emotionally charged means to influence your feelings.
Your partner threatens to harm themselves to guilt you into staying in the relationship.
Recognize controlling behaviors and strive for an open, caring and supportive relationship. That's what's healthy!
Our video series, That's What's Healthy, aims to educate people on the red flags of unhealthy relationships that pop up before the behavior escalates into abuse. Visit our YouTube channel or blog for more videos on red flags.