The phenomenon of manipulation is multifaceted, encompassing a range of forms such as deception, persuasion, coercion, emotional and psychological manipulation as well as physical manipulation. 

The act of tampering may elicit a range of outcomes upon the recipient, including but not limited to disorientation, remorsefulness, apprehension, indignation, animosity, subordination or acquiescence. The phenomenon of manipulation is evident in diverse contexts and scenarios, which encompass interpersonal associations, political reals, mass communication, commercial enterprise, educational institutions as well as religious establishments. 

Tempering may be driven by diverse objectives and aims, such as attaining control, financial gain, the elevation of social standing, acknowledgment, adoration or sanction. The ethical ramification and ramifications of manipulation may vary depending on the type and degree of manipulation employed as well as the resultant effects it produces on the targeted individuals and other engaged parties.

Some examples of manipulation are:

  • A politician who uses propaganda and lies to manipulate public opinion and win votes.
  • A partner who uses threats and insults to manipulate their spouse into doing what they want.
  • A parent who uses guilt and praise to manipulate their child into behaving well.
  • A teacher who uses rewards and punishments to manipulate their students into learning.
  • A friend who uses flattery and favours to manipulate their peer into lending them money.
  • A salesperson who uses pressure and persuasion to manipulate their customer into buying their product.

Some possible ways to resist or prevent manipulation are:

  • Being aware of one’s own values, beliefs, needs, and goals and not letting others impose theirs on oneself.
  • Being critical and sceptical of the information and messages one receives from others and verifying their sources and validity.
  • Being assertive and confident in expressing one’s opinions and feelings and saying no when necessary.
  • Being empathetic and respectful of others’ perspectives and feelings but not letting them manipulate one’s own.
  • Seeking help and support from trusted people when facing manipulation or its effects.
What is a kind of phenomenon called manipulation? Psychological point of view.

Some scientific publications on manipulation are:

  1. Buss DM. The evolution of human intrasexual competition: tactics of mate attraction. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 1988;54(4):616–628.
  2. Cialdini RB. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion. New York: HarperCollins; 2006.
  3. Kowalski RM. Behaving badly: aversive behaviors in interpersonal relationships. Washington DC: American Psychological Association; 2001.
  4. Olszanowski M. The role of facial mimicry in emotional contagion: a case of facial feedback hypothesis or social interaction theory? Polish Psychological Bulletin. 2014;45(1):20–26.
  5. Van Lange PAM. The pursuit of joint outcomes and equality in outcomes: an integrative model of social value orientation. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 1999;77(2):337–349.

Important words:

  • Manipulation
  • Influence
  • Control
  • Deception
  • Persuasion
  • Coercion
  • Propaganda
  • Critical