One common manipulation tactic is Manipulation Tactics which involves exploiting someone’s feelings to gain control. This may include guilt-tripping, fearmongering, or playing the victim. For example, a manipulator might say, “If you really cared about me, you would do this,” placing emotional pressure on the other person to comply. This tactic works because people naturally want to avoid hurting others or feeling guilty, even if the request is unreasonable.

Another widely used tactic is gaslighting, where the manipulator causes someone to doubt their own perceptions, memory, or judgment. Over time, the victim may begin to feel confused, insecure, and dependent on the manipulator for “truth.” Statements like “You’re imagining things” or “That never happened” are typical examples. Gaslighting is especially harmful because it undermines self-confidence and can damage mental health.

Deception and misinformation are also key manipulation tactics. This involves withholding important information, exaggerating facts, or spreading lies to shape opinions or decisions. In advertising or media, this may appear as misleading claims or selective presentation of facts. When people do not have accurate information, they are more likely to make choices that benefit the manipulator rather than themselves.

Power imbalance manipulation occurs when someone uses authority, status, or expertise to control others. For instance, a manager may pressure employees into unpaid work by implying negative consequences if they refuse.