Detecting a manipulator requires keen observation of their behavior, patterns, and tactics. Here are some key signs:
1. Emotional Manipulation
Guilt-Tripping: They make you feel guilty for things you shouldn’t feel guilty about.
Playing the Victim: They always portray themselves as the victim to gain sympathy and avoid responsibility.
Silent Treatment: They withdraw communication to make you anxious and submissive.
2. Control & Deception
Gaslighting: They distort reality, making you doubt your memory or perception.
Lying & Half-Truths: They twist facts to fit their narrative and avoid accountability.
Triangulation: They bring in third parties to create confusion, jealousy, or insecurity.
3. Passive-Aggressive Behavior
Backhanded Compliments: Insults disguised as compliments.
Procrastination & Sabotage: Deliberately delaying tasks or making "mistakes" to cause problems.
Feigning Ignorance: Pretending not to understand to avoid obligations or responsibilities.
4. Power Plays
Excessive Flattery: They use charm to lower your guard before exploiting you.
Ultimatums & Threats: They create a false sense of urgency to pressure you into compliance.
Withholding Information: Keeping crucial details secret to maintain control over you.
How to Protect Yourself
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.
Set Clear Boundaries: Be firm about what behavior you will and won’t accept.
Don’t Engage in Their Games: Avoid getting emotionally entangled in their tactics.
Seek Outside Perspectives: Talk to someone you trust to get an objective view.
Detach & Distance Yourself: If they refuse to change, limit your interactions or CUT TIES.
Make sure you protect yourself.
With lots of love and light Benita 🙏✨️🥰