Trust, understanding, and mutual respect are the foundations of a healthy relationship. However, some people try to take advantage of these aspects of a relationship in order to profit themselves in some way. Emotional manipulation happens when a manipulative person seeks authority over another person by using deceptive or exploitive tactics.

In most cases, the manipulator plays mind games, makes his or her victim feel guilty, fabricates stories to defend his or her position, and then exploits situations.

Here are 5 subtle signs that prove you are the victim of manipulation

1. Forcing you to do things

One of the subtle signs that you are being emotionally manipulated is when they ask you politely to force you to do something you don’t want to do. You don’t want to, but you can’t seem to say no to them. You end yourself doing what they want, either because of the tone or a hidden threat.

2. They distort the truth

Emotional manipulators are experts at distorting reality through lies, fabrications, or misstatements in order to perplex you. They may distort events in order to appear more vulnerable. In an attempt to attract compassion, they may downplay their role in a quarrel.

3. Passive aggression

Negative feelings or concerns with a person are not expressed by the manipulator. Instead, they find subtle ways to vent their frustrations and undermine the other person. When you and your partner are having a disagreement, does your partner put on a “stoneface”? Or do they respond with monosyllabic responses while you try to have a normal conversation? These are all subtle signs they are emotionally manipulating you.

4. Sympathy and guilt

Manipulators use sympathy and guilt to get their work done. Many individuals are vulnerable to feelings of guilt and will even punish themselves for perceived mistakes. Manipulators prey on this and are likely to play the victim or remind you of previous favors, generating a sense of responsibility or pity that will help them obtain what they want.

5. They do not accept responsibility

Emotional manipulators will never admit fault for their mistakes. They will, however, try to make you feel responsible for everything, even if they are the one who is at fault. You will always find yourself apologizing, irrespective of them being at fault.

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Also Read: Why Does Jealousy Occur In A Relationship? Know How It Affects Us