A common characteristic of manipulation tactics is that Manipulation Tactics they distort reality. Manipulators may withhold information, twist facts, or create emotional confusion to gain the upper hand. One widely known tactic is gaslighting, where the manipulator makes the victim doubt their memory, perception, or sanity. This can be done through denial, contradiction, or minimizing the victim’s experiences, gradually eroding their sense of self-trust. Over time, the manipulated person may grow increasingly dependent on the manipulator’s version of reality.

Another frequent tactic is guilt-tripping, where the manipulator uses shame or emotional obligation to control another person’s actions. Rather than communicating their needs directly, they provoke feelings of guilt to pressure someone into complying. For example, statements like “After everything I’ve done for you…” or “You’d help me if you really cared” are designed to create emotional discomfort that leads to compliance.

Love-bombing is a tactic often used in romantic or social contexts. The manipulator overwhelms the target with excessive affection, praise, and attention to create an intense bond. Once trust and dependency are established, the manipulator may withdraw affection or introduce demands, using the earlier emotional intensity as leverage.

Financial or workplace environments often see power-based manipulation, such as intimidation or subtle threats. Manipulators may hint at consequences—social, professional, or personal—if the target does not comply. This tactic exploits fear, making the victim feel as though they have no safe alternative.

Triangulation is another tactic where a manipulator brings a third person into a conflict to increase tension, jealousy, or insecurity. By comparing people or relaying selective information,