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 🙏✨️🥰