Manipulation in relationships is a real concern. It’s often subtle, hidden beneath layers of false affection and charm.

The problem is, many people who are being manipulated don’t even realize it. They might be displaying certain behaviours or traits that make them an easy target for the manipulator.

In a relationship, being aware of these traits can help guard against manipulation. It’s not always easy to spot, but there are signs to watch for.

Here’s a look at 8 traits that often make someone more susceptible to manipulation in a relationship.

1) Unresolved insecurities

Insecurities can make a person an easy target for manipulation in a relationship.

Everyone has insecurities, but when left unresolved, they can leave us vulnerable. Manipulators often exploit these insecurities, using them as leverage to control their partners.

For instance, if someone is insecure about their appearance, a manipulator might use constant criticism or subtle comments to deepen those insecurities. This makes the person more dependent on the manipulator for validation and less likely to challenge their behaviour.

It’s not always easy to spot this happening. But being aware of your insecurities and how they might be used against you is the first step in preventing manipulation.

2) Need for approval

This is a trait I’ve personally struggled with. The constant need for approval can often make one susceptible to manipulation.

I remember in my past relationship, I always wanted to please my partner. I would compromise my own needs and desires to ensure they were happy. It was not until a friend pointed out how unbalanced our relationship was, that I realized I was being manipulated.

My partner knew about my need for validation and used it against me. They would withhold approval or act distant until I did what they wanted. It was a subtle form of manipulation that I was unaware of.

Being aware of this trait and understanding that seeking constant approval from others can lead to manipulation is crucial. It’s important to know that your worth is not determined by the approval of others, but by your own self-worth.

3) Low self-esteem

Low self-esteem is another trait that can make people more susceptible to manipulation in relationships.

Research shows that individuals with low self-esteem are more likely to stay in unhappy relationships. Manipulators often prey on this vulnerability, using it as a tool to control their partners.

They may belittle or criticize their partner, further lowering their self-esteem and making them believe they don’t deserve better.

4) Overly trusting nature

While trust is a fundamental aspect of any healthy relationship, an overly trusting nature can sometimes lead to manipulation.

People who trust others too easily may overlook red flags and fail to question suspicious actions. This blind trust can be abused by manipulators, who take advantage of their partner’s trust to control or deceive them.

It’s crucial to strike a balance between trust and healthy skepticism in relationships to avoid falling prey to manipulation. Trusting your partner is essential, but so is protecting your own interests and wellbeing.

5) Lack of emotional boundaries

Emotional boundaries are crucial in every relationship. They allow us to separate our feelings from those of others and prevent us from being emotionally drained.

Unfortunately, some people, out of love or fear, don’t set these boundaries. They take on their partner’s emotions and problems as their own, leaving them emotionally drained and easy to manipulate.

Manipulators can use this lack of boundaries to control and exploit their partners. They can make their partner feel responsible for their happiness, causing guilt and obligation.

Understanding the importance of emotional boundaries and learning how to set them can be a powerful defence against manipulation.

6) Fear of confrontation

Confrontation can be intimidating. I know because I’ve been there. It’s easier to stay silent and avoid conflict than to voice your concerns or stand up for yourself.

But this fear can make one susceptible to manipulation. Manipulators thrive on their partner’s fear of confrontation. They know their actions are unlikely to be challenged, which gives them the freedom to control and exploit.

It’s important to remember that confrontation isn’t always negative. It can be a healthy way to express your feelings and set boundaries.

7) Tendency to self-blame

People who have a tendency to blame themselves for everything often become easy targets for manipulation in relationships.

Manipulators can use this trait to shift responsibility for their actions onto their partners. They might make their partner feel guilty or responsible for problems in the relationship, even when it’s not their fault.

This self-blaming behaviour can be hard to recognize and even harder to break. But understanding this trait and the role it can play in manipulation is a critical step towards building healthier relationships.

8) Lack of self-care

The most important thing to understand about manipulation is that self-care is your strongest defence against it.

Those who neglect their own needs and well-being often become easy targets for manipulation. They might be so focused on caring for their partner that they forget to care for themselves.

Manipulators can exploit this, making their partners feel guilty for prioritizing their own needs.

Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish. It’s necessary. And it’s the best way to protect yourself from falling victim to manipulation in a relationship.