Some phrases seem very simple and innocent, but they hide intentions of control and emotional guilt that many do not recognize.
Manipulation is not always accompanied by shouting or direct attitudes. Often, it hides in seemingly harmless phrases, said calmly and even with . Psychology explains that manipulators use language as a tool to control emotions, create guilt and distort perceptions, all without arousing suspicion.
6 phrases that a manipulative person often says and others don’t understand, according to psychology
1. “You’re going a little overboard with things”
This phrase invalidates feelings and makes people doubt their own emotions, weakening their confidence.
2. “It’s not that, I just want the best for you”
Used to justify controlling attitudes, it creates the false idea of care while limiting the freedom of others. It appeals to fear and guilt, maintaining control through emotional blackmail.
3. “If you really loved me, you would do this for me without any problem”
A classic emotional blackmail to get what you want. This phrase appeals to guilt and transforms love into emotional obligation, a classic tactic of emotional manipulation.
4. “After everything I’ve done for you…”
This phrase is used to create emotional debt and make a person feel obligated to give in, even when they are right. Isolates the victim, making them believe that only the manipulator can offer support and understanding.
5. “You’re crazy, I never said that, it’s not true”
It is often used to confuse and make people doubt their own memory. It serves to discredit legitimate emotions and make the victim remain silent to avoid further attacks.
6. “I swear I was just kidding, you don’t know how to take it easy.”
This phrase minimizes offensive attitudes and blames the other person for reacting, keeping the manipulator in a position of innocence. It tries to divert responsibility and reverse roles, making the victim feel guilty for the situation.
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