Most people are familiar with the concept of psychology, which is the study of human behavior.
However, fewer people are aware of dark psychology, which is a branch of psychology that deals with manipulation and persuasion.
It’s a topic that is shrouded in mystery and misunderstanding, covering the darker aspects of human nature, such as manipulation, mind control, and persuasion. This field of study can be extremely fascinating, but it can also be quite disturbing.
In this guide, we will explore all facets of dark psychology and answer some common questions about it, while analyzing examples of the practice in action.
What is dark psychology?
Dark psychology is the application of manipulation, persuasion, and coercion in a way that may harm the recipient.
More commonly, dark psychology may be referred to as psychological or emotional abuse and manipulation.
Psychological abuse
Psychological manipulation is a type of social influence that aims to change the behavior or perception of others through indirect, deceptive, or underhanded tactics.
By preying on people’s vulnerabilities and weaknesses, manipulators can subtly encourage them to do things that they wouldn’t normally do.
Is dark psychology real?
Absolutely. Although it might not always be labeled dark psychology, psychological manipulation is a sad reality.
If you’re anything like me, you’re quite attuned to dark psychologists and how they play their power games.
If not, you’re in the right place, because we’ll investigate some examples of how it’s used, so you can protect yourself against its wiley ways.
Facts and stats
Unfortunately, dark psychology in the context of abuse is a prevalent societal problem and is a common form of Intimate Partner Violence.
Indeed, the WHO estimates that the lifetime prevalence of emotional IPV among women could range from 20-75%.
In this survey, it was found that 57% of respondents felt uncomfortable or afraid in their current relationship, increasing to 87% for previous relationships. Furthermore, nearly 50% of men and women reported some form of psychological aggression.
And it’s not just restricted to adults. This UK research estimated that 1 in 11 adults had experienced emotional abuse before the age of 16 (3.8 million people).
Examples
While dark psychology can be used for malicious purposes, it mustn’t be confused with persuasion, which can be employed for more mundane goals, such as sales or marketing. Sometimes, however, this line may be blurred.
Examples of dark psychology can be seen across all aspects of life. While it’s arguably more common in romantic relationships as the research above demonstrates, you might also notice its use elsewhere. This could include:
- A friend uses suggestive techniques to persuade you to do something
- A power play at work, where a colleague engages in oneupmanship
Here are additional examples of it in action:
1. Persuasive speech
Manipulative speakers often use dark psychology techniques to convince their audience to do something, whether it’s buying a product, voting for a candidate, or supporting a cause. Such (“dark”) persuasion often relies on emotional appeal and logical fallacies to make its case, rather than sound reasoning.
2. Deceptive advertising
Ads that rely on false claims or misleading images are employing dark psychology to encourage people to take action, which may or may not be in their best interests. One amazing book on this topic is by the grandaddy of persuasion research, Robert Cialdini – compulsory reading for anyone interested in this topic.
3. Coercive interrogation
This is a controversial technique employed by law enforcement and intelligence agencies in which suspects are subjected to psychological pressure in order to elicit information. While this practice has been shown to be effective in some cases, it is also considered unethical by many.
4. Mind control
This is perhaps the most extreme example of dark psychology, in which an individual or group seeks to control another. Often you might see this in the case of cult leaders, who are enigmatic enough to convince their followers to do their every bidding.
How do people use dark psychology?
Many practitioners of dark psychology use it to gain power for personal or professional gain. Here are 5 common techniques.
1. Gaining trust through love bombing
Love bombing is a form of psychological manipulation in which an individual deliberately uses flattery, gifts, and attention to gain control over another person. Although it is often used in relationships, it can also occur in friendships, family relationships, and work environments. Love bombers typically display excessive amounts of affection and attention early on in the relationship in order to create an intense bond. They may also make grand promises or give lavish gifts in order to further their control. Over time, the love bomber may begin to withdraw their support and instead use criticism, and emotional control to maintain power.
2. Gaslighting
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse in which the abuser deliberately tries to undermine the victim’s sense of reality. It is an insidious form of control that can have a devastating effect on the victim’s mental health. Gaslighting usually starts gradually, with the abuser making small changes to the victim’s environment or routine. The aim is to create confusion and doubt in the victim’s mind so that they second-guess their own memories and perceptions. Over time, the victim may start to doubt their own sanity. If you suspect that you’re being exposed to these techniques, it is important to seek help from a trusted friend or professional.
3. Passive-aggressive behavior
Passive-aggressive psychological manipulation is a type of emotional manipulation that can be difficult to spot because it often masquerades as normal behavior. Passive-aggressive manipulators may seem withdrawn or uninterested, but in reality, they are carefully monitoring your reaction to their behavior. They may withhold information or make snide comments in an attempt to get you to react. If you suspect that someone is trying to manipulate you emotionally, it is essential to pay attention to your gut feelings and take steps to protect yourself. You may need to set boundaries or build a support network of people you can trust. Remember, you are not responsible for the manipulator’s happiness, and you should not let them control your emotions.
4. Emotional blackmail
Emotional blackmail is a powerful psychological manipulation tool that can be used to control and exploit others. It usually involves the threat of withholding love or approval unless the victim complies with the blackmailer’s demands. Often, emotional blackmailers will use guilt or fear to induce their victims to do what they want. For example, a parent might threaten to withdraw their love if their child does not obey them, causing damage to relationships and emotional distress.
5. Withdrawing affection
One common manipulation tactic is withdrawing affection, which often accompanies emotional blackmail. This can take many forms, from refusing to speak to someone to withholding physical affection, and it is often used in order to punish someone or force them into doing something. Withdrawing affection can be an incredibly powerful tool, as it taps into our deep-seated need for connection and approval. When we’re cut off from those things, it can cause us a great deal of distress. In some cases, the pain of being disconnected from another person can be enough to motivate them to change their behavior. While withdrawing affection may get results in the short term, it is not a healthy way to interact with others in the long term, causing lasting emotional damage.
The best book on the topic
In Sheep’s Clothing: Understanding and Dealing with Manipulative People
This book is based on the premise that not everybody has the conscience to distinguish between right and wrong in the traditional sense.
Some individuals aren’t motivated by love and reciprocity, but rather play to win, striving to control and gain power in every situation.
The book covers a range of techniques that master-manipulators employ, before providing suggestions on how to address and counteract these tactics if you find yourself on their receiving end.
For more book recommendations on this exact topic, click here.
Summary
Dark psychology is a branch of psychological study that deals with the more nefarious aspects of human behavior. It can encompass everything from manipulation and deception to outright aggression and violence, often in the pursuit of personal gain.
If you suspect that you’re being manipulated or controlled emotionally, it is vital to pay attention to your gut feelings and take steps to protect yourself. You may need to set boundaries or construct a support network of people you can trust. Remember, reach out for professional help if needed.
