By adulthood, though, many adults grow out of manipulative tendencies and develop more subtle ways of achieving their goals, like
being assertive and
setting healthy boundaries, explains Masopust.
She adds that some people who have experienced broken relationships or traumatic incidents may learn to resort to behaviors like manipulation, aggression, or deceit to get their needs met.
“These behaviors are usually the individual’s attempt at maintaining power or
control in a relationship, though they may not be aware of the damage they are causing to others,” says Masopust.
Why does someone become manipulative?
When it comes to the causes of persistent manipulative behavior, everyone’s story and motivations may be different.
A consistent pattern of manipulation can often form in childhood, says
Dr. Lee Phillps, a psychotherapist and certified sex and couples therapist in Virginia and New York.
For example, if someone learns early on that they can’t get their needs met directly, they may have to source other ways to feel safe emotionally, physically, and beyond.
“If a manipulative person grew up in a home characterized by competitiveness and conflict, this can carry with them into adulthood,” he explains. “If they were abandoned by a parent or a caretaker, they can crave attention as an adult and may manipulate to achieve it.”
Some mental health conditions and interpersonal styles can be associated with constant manipulative behaviors (though it’s also possible to still be manipulative without one).
Examples may include: