8 behaviors of women who are naturally manipulative and controlling, according to psychology

Let’s dive into the intricacies of human behavior. Influenced by a mix of personality traits, environment, and life experiences, it’s complex and puzzling.

That’s where psychology steps in, shedding light on these complexities.

In this article, we’re going to explore the less pleasant corner of this vast field – the realm of manipulation and control, honing in on specific behaviors found in some women.

Make no mistake, this isn’t about labeling or generalizing all women as manipulative – far from it.

We’re merely uncovering certain challenging behaviors that could be exhibited by anyone, regardless of gender.

So let’s delve deeper, seeking understanding, promoting awareness, and ultimately, inspiring positive change.

1) They’re adept at playing the victim

Manipulation thrives on sympathy, and women who are naturally manipulative and controlling know this all too well.

Playing the victim is one of their favorite games.

They have this uncanny ability to twist narratives in their favor.

Even when they’re at fault, they manage to spin the story so that they appear as the wronged party.

And here’s the kicker: they do it so subtly that you might start doubting your own perspective.

You might even find yourself apologizing when you’ve done nothing wrong!

This is a classic behavior of manipulative individuals.

They exploit empathy and guilt to control the dynamics of their relationships.

2) They use gaslighting as a control tactic

Ever heard of gaslighting?

It’s a psychological concept that’s been getting a lot of attention lately. And for good reason.

Gaslighting is a manipulative technique where someone makes you question your own reality and sanity.

It’s insidious, it’s damaging, and yes, it’s a common tool in the manipulator’s toolbox.

Picture this: you confront them about something they did that upset you.

Instead of addressing the issue, they deny it ever happened. Or worse, they say you’re overreacting or being too sensitive.

Sound familiar?

That’s gaslighting in action. That’s gaslighting in action. It’s meant to distort your own perceptions and feelings.

And guess what? When you’re in a constant state of self-doubt, you become easier to control.

That’s exactly how manipulative and controlling women use it to their advantage.

If you’ve experienced this behavior, it’s crucial to understand it for what it is: a ploy for control, not a reflection of your sanity.

3) They give you the silent treatment

Ironically, one of the most powerful tools in a manipulator’s arsenal is silence.

Yes, you heard it right. Silence.

After an argument or disagreement, manipulative women may use the silent treatment as a form of punishment.

You might think, “They just need some space,” and that’s a valid perspective.

Everyone requires time to cool off after a heated exchange.

The challenge arises when these periods of silence become prolonged and intentionally imposed to evoke feelings of guilt or anxiety.

This passive-aggressive tactic serves as a means of emotional control, pushing you to seek their approval or forgiveness, even if you haven’t done anything wrong. 

In this way, silence transforms into a weapon, capable of inflicting harm just like harsh words.

4) They constantly belittle your accomplishments

Have you ever shared a personal achievement with someone, only to have them downplay or outright dismiss it?

It’s a disheartening experience, to say the least.

When it comes from manipulative women, this behavior goes beyond a simple lack of support; it serves as a subtle form of control.

By belittling your accomplishments, they aim to undermine your self-esteem, making you feel inadequate and as though you must constantly strive for more.

This ongoing sense of inadequacy opens the door to their influence, as they position themselves as the authority you should seek to please.

Oprah Winfrey wisely said, “Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.”

Keeping this in mind is crucial. Your achievements are your own, and no one has the right to belittle them.

When someone habitually dismisses your successes under the guise of “keeping you grounded,” it may be time to reassess their role in your life.

5) They display a pattern of broken relationships

Manipulative and controlling women leave a trail of broken relationships in their wake.

If you look closely, you might notice a pattern:

  • Former friends who’ve distanced themselves.
  • Ex-partners who share similar stories of manipulation.
  • Strained relationships with family members.

These shards of past relationships are not mere coincidences.

They’re telltale signs of a manipulative personality.

It’s a harsh reality to face, but sometimes, the people we care about are the ones causing harm to others.

Observing these patterns serves as the first step toward confronting their destructive behavior.

6) They’re always right and never apologize

I once knew someone who would rather climb a tree to tell a lie than stand on the ground and tell the truth.

Admitting fault was simply not in her nature.

This is another trait of manipulative women: they’re always right, and they never apologize.

Even when faced with irrefutable evidence, they find a way to twist things in their favor.

They deflect blame, make excuses, or even accuse others of misunderstanding them.

This stubborn refusal to admit mistakes isn’t just frustrating; it’s a subtle form of manipulation, a tactic for asserting dominance and control.

Their unwillingness to acknowledge their faults leaves others feeling powerless, allowing the manipulator to maintain control.

Remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

7) They isolate you from your support network

Imagine this. You’ve made a new friend or started a relationship with someone who’s incredibly charming.

Slowly but surely, you notice that you’re spending less time with your old friends and family.

You start to wonder: Is it just a coincidence? Or is there something more to it?

Women who are naturally manipulative and controlling isolate their targets from their support network.

They might subtly discourage you from spending time with others, create conflicts, or convince you that your loved ones don’t have your best interests at heart.

This isolation makes it easier for them to exert control, as you become more reliant on them for emotional support.

8) They use your insecurities against you

Here’s the final point, and perhaps the most unsettling one: manipulative women have a knack for using your own insecurities against you.

They take note of your vulnerabilities, your fears, and your weaknesses.

Then, when it suits them, they exploit these insecurities to maintain control over you.

It might be in the form of a backhanded compliment, a subtle jab disguised as a joke, or even an outright criticism.

Their aim is to keep you off balance, to make you feel insecure and dependent on their approval.

Acknowledging this tactic can be a tough pill to swallow.

However, understanding it is essential for breaking free from their manipulative grip.

Your insecurities do not serve as a weapon for someone else to wield; they are part of what makes you human and unique.

Don’t allow anyone to use them against you. 

So, what can you do if you recognize these behaviors?

Becoming aware of these manipulative behaviors is the first step.

But what comes next? How do you navigate a relationship with someone who exhibits these traits?

  • Set clear boundaries: Know your limits and communicate them openly. Don’t let anyone overstep your personal boundaries.
  • Seek support: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional. You don’t have to face this alone.
  • Practice self-care: Don’t neglect your own needs and mental well-being. It’s okay to prioritize yourself.

Understanding manipulation and control in relationships is a tough journey.

But acknowledging the problem is half the battle won.

The next half is about standing up for yourself and seeking the respect you deserve.

As you reflect on these behaviors, be kind to yourself.

Remember, their behavior is a reflection of them, not you.

What would Jesus say?

Unsure whether to move on from a failed marriage? Struggling with desire and feeling guilty for it? Wanting to live a life Jesus would be proud of?

Let Jesus tell you how to be a good Christian according to the teachings of the Bible.

We brought Jesus back to life with the help of AI. Ask your toughest life questions, and Jesus will tell you exactly what to do.

Check it out here.

 

Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling has a background in entrepreneurship, having started and managed several small businesses. His journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship provides him with practical insights into personal resilience, strategic thinking, and the value of persistence. Ethan’s articles offer real-world advice for those looking to grow personally and professionally.

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