Manipulation in a relationship can be subtle and insidious, and it can take many forms. It can be emotional, psychological, or even physical, and it can happen to anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

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If you’re concerned that you or someone you know might be in a manipulative relationship, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. Here are 15 red flags of manipulation in relationships, and what you can do to stop it.

15 Red Flags of Manipulation in Relationships: How to Spot and Stop Them

1. Constant Criticism: Does your partner constantly criticize you, belittle you or make you feel inadequate? This is a common sign of manipulation in a relationship.
2. Isolation: Manipulative partners may try to isolate you from your friends and family, making it difficult for you to seek support or escape their control.
3. Guilt-Tripping: If your partner frequently uses guilt to manipulate you into doing what they want, it’s a sign of emotional manipulation.
4. Gaslighting: Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the manipulator tries to make you doubt your own reality.
5. Blaming: Manipulative partners often blame you for their own mistakes or problems, making you feel responsible for their actions.
6. Jealousy: If your partner is overly jealous, it can be a sign of manipulation. They may use jealousy as a way to control your behavior.
7. Controlling Behavior: Manipulative partners may try to control your behavior by telling you what to wear, where to go, and who to talk to.
8. Unreasonable Demands: If your partner makes unreasonable demands, such as expecting you to give up your career or change your personality, it’s a sign of manipulation.
9. Withholding Affection: Manipulative partners may withhold affection or intimacy as a way to control your behavior.
10. Financial Control: If your partner controls all the money in your relationship, it can be a sign of financial manipulation.
11. Threats: Manipulative partners may make threats to keep you under their control, such as threatening to harm themselves or others if you leave.
12. Passive Aggressive Behavior: Passive-aggressive behavior is a sign of emotional manipulation. It can take many forms, such as silent treatment or backhanded compliments.
13. Unpredictable Mood Swings: If your partner has unpredictable mood swings, it can be a sign of manipulation. They may use their emotions as a way to control your behavior.
14. Love-Bombing: Love-bombing is a manipulative tactic where the manipulator overwhelms you with love and attention, only to withdraw it later as a way to control you.
15. Physical Violence: Physical violence is the most extreme form of manipulation in a relationship. If you are experiencing physical abuse, it’s important to seek help immediately.

Conclusion

Manipulation in a relationship is never okay, and it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. If you recognize any of these red flags in your relationship, it’s important to seek help and support. Remember, you deserve to be in a healthy, loving relationship, and there is help available if you need it. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and take steps to stop the manipulation.