Humans learn through development and social experiences how to manipulate other people—and their surroundings. Infants learn what works and what isn’t quite as successful to get their basic needs met, ...

Recent research has analyzed the benefits of manipulation in hopes of teasing out the differences between “harmless” manipulation and “harmful” manipulation. Most social interactions involve some form ...

Manipulators have a whole range of tactics they can use to make others do what they want. The best ones can bend you to their will before you even realize what’s happening. You can protect yourself, ...

Navigating conversations with manipulators can feel like walking through a minefield, but sometimes a subtle comeback is your best tool. These comebacks are designed to put you back in control without ...

Dealing with manipulative people is one of the greatest frustrations in the workplace. Is there a foolproof way to stop manipulative people from getting under your skin? Yes, says Shadé Zahrai, PhD, ...

We've all encountered those people who seem to have a knack for twisting situations to suit their needs. They might be smooth talkers or subtle influencers, leaving you feeling like you're not in ...

Dan Jones, an associate professor in management who researches toxic personality traits and how it can lead to unethical behavior, answers questions about what makes a master manipulator and how to ...

Kind people make the world better, but that same goodness can make them targets. Manipulators don’t see compassion as admirable-they see it as an opportunity. They study emotional patterns, exploit ...

In a healthy conversation, people share ideas, listen, and find common ground. In a manipulative one, the goal isn't understanding—it's control. Manipulators use specific phrases and tactics to twist ...