There’s a stark contrast between someone who respects your boundaries and someone who tries to control you.

This difference is especially poignant when a controlling person realizes they’ve lost their grip over you.

A toxic man, when sensing this loss of control, will resort to certain behaviors in a desperate attempt to regain power.

In the following piece, I will share with you ten things a toxic man might do when he realizes he can no longer control you.  

Ready? Let’s dive in. 

1) He’ll resort to guilt-tripping

One of the most common tactics used by a toxic man losing control is guilt-tripping.

This is a manipulative strategy where he’ll make you feel guilty for things that are not your fault, or for simply standing up for yourself.

The purpose of this behavior is to make you question your decisions and actions, thereby weakening your resolve and making it easier for him to regain the control he’s lost.

It’s a subtle form of emotional abuse designed to tear down your confidence and self-esteem, making you more susceptible to his manipulation.

Keep in mind, it’s important to stand firm in your decisions and assert your boundaries. Don’t let guilt-tripping cause you to doubt yourself or compromise your well-being.

2) He’ll become overly critical

In my own experience, I noticed a significant shift in my toxic partner’s behavior when he realized he was losing control.

He suddenly became overly critical of everything I did, from the way I dressed to how I prepared our meals. It felt as though nothing I did was ever good enough.

I remember one day when I had spent hours preparing a special dinner for us. Instead of appreciation, he berated me for using the wrong type of seasoning. It was incredibly hurtful and it was clear he was trying to undermine my confidence.

This is a tactic often used by toxic individuals to make you feel inadequate and doubt your self-worth, all in an attempt to regain control. Recognizing this behavior is crucial in maintaining your self-esteem and standing up against it.

3) He’ll increase his demands

As a toxic man senses his control slipping away, he might start making more demands of you. That’s because controlling individuals often see control as synonymous with obedience.

Think about it: When people feel they’re losing control, they tend to become more demanding and assertive in an attempt to regain it.

These increased demands can include anything from asking you to change your appearance to dictating who you can and cannot see.

It’s crucial to understand that these aren’t requests born out of love or concern but rather attempts to regain control. Stay firm in your boundaries and don’t let these demands steer you away from your chosen path.

4) He’ll play the victim

When a toxic man realizes he can’t control you anymore, he might start playing the victim.

This could involve portraying himself as the misunderstood party or seeking sympathy to divert your attention from his controlling behavior.

By casting himself as the victim, he redirects focus away from his toxic actions and puts you in a position where you feel compelled to comfort and support him.

This tactic aims to keep you emotionally entangled and uncertain, making it tougher for you to set and uphold your boundaries.  

5) He’ll try to isolate you

Isolation is a typical strategy used by toxic individuals when they feel like they’re losing control. They aim to cut you off from your support system in hopes of making you more reliant on them.

This might include criticizing your friends and family, making you feel guilty for spending time with them, or even outright forbidding you from seeing them.

But here’s the kicker: Love shouldn’t feel like a chokehold.

Your social connections are vital for your mental health, so don’t let anyone box you in. Keep those social connections alive and thriving.

6) He’ll threaten to leave

When a toxic man feels like he’s losing control, he might resort to threatening to end the relationship. This is meant to instill fear and insecurity in you, pushing you to do whatever it takes to keep him around.

It’s truly heartbreaking when someone you care about threatens to leave, especially when their goal isn’t to resolve issues but to manipulate your emotions.

Here’s the deal: A relationship should never be kept alive by fear. They’re a clear sign of emotional manipulation and aren’t characteristic of a healthy or respectful relationship.

7) He’ll gaslight you

Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic that’s hard to recognize when you’re in the thick of it. I know because I’ve been there.

He started questioning my memory, telling me events didn’t happen the way I remembered them. He’d make me feel like I was losing my mind, causing me to question my own perceptions and sanity.

It was a disorienting experience, like living in a fog. But it was his way of regaining control – by making me doubt myself and my reality, he could shape it to his liking.

Understanding gaslighting and its effects is crucial. If you’re feeling confused and unsure about your own thoughts and memories, reach out to someone you trust. Don’t let his manipulation distort your reality.

8) He’ll shower you with affection

It might seem strange, but when a toxic man feels his control slipping, he might suddenly become incredibly affectionate. This can be confusing and often mistaken for genuine change in his behavior.

This sudden shift from controlling to caring is a calculated move known as “love bombing”. It’s designed to make you drop your guard and forget his previous toxic actions.

Here’s the bottom line: Real change takes time and consistent effort. Don’t be fooled by sudden bursts of affection meant to distract you from his controlling ways. Stay vigilant and trust your instincts.

9) He’ll become unpredictable

When a toxic man starts losing control, he might become unpredictable in his behavior. One moment he’s kind and loving, and the next he’s cold and distant.

This constant change keeps you on edge and makes you feel like you have to work harder to please him, which gives him a sense of control.

His erratic behavior isn’t just confusing, but it’s also emotionally exhausting. It’s crucial to see it for what it is—a manipulation tactic.

Always remember, you deserve stability and respect in your relationships, not constant uncertainty and stress.

10) He’ll try to make you believe you’re the problem

When dealing with a toxic man losing control, it’s crucial to remember that he may try to shift the blame onto you.

He’ll twist situations, point fingers at you for his actions, and make you feel like you’re the source of all the relationship problems.

This manipulation tactic is meant to make you feel guilty, question yourself, and ultimately hand back control to him.

But don’t fall for it. You are not the problem. His need for control and his toxic behavior are the real issues. Stay firm in your truth and prioritize your well-being.

Final thoughts: The power lies within you

In essence, the actions of toxic individuals stem from their insecurities and fears, not from your worth or abilities. You’re not accountable for their behavior, and you don’t have to endure their toxicity.

Whether it’s establishing clear boundaries, leaning on supportive friends and family, or making the tough call to walk away from the relationship, the control is in your hands.

The road ahead may be tough and full of unknowns, but always remember: You’re stronger than you know, more capable than you give yourself credit for, and worthy of respect, love, and peace.