If you become the victim of triangulation, the manipulator will purposely fail to communicate with you, while turning other members of your group against you. This form of bullying can take many forms, depending on the situation, but it almost always includes gaslighting or some covert element that pits you against others.
You might not even be fully aware of what’s going on. The goal is to divide and conquer. Once you’re isolated from your support system, the manipulator can assume control.
Double-Blind
A narcissist tends to think in terms of a double-blind. This mindset is that you’re damned if you do, and you’re damned if you don’t. No matter what choices you make in life, someone who uses this manipulation tactic will always claim that you made the wrong choice.
You can recognize this tactic by condescending phrases like, “Well, if you had done this differently, I would’ve helped you… but forget about it now.” If you’re the victim of the double-blind, you’ll begin to doubt both your judgment and intuition. This weakens you emotionally and psychologically — which is what the manipulator wants.
Covert Aggressive Abuse
Narcissists love to disguise their abuse. They will frame insults as helpful advice, useful lessons, or potential solutions. You might be led to believe that the manipulator sincerely wants to help you.
The “advice” may be followed by criticism or disappointment — from the narcissist themselves or their henchmen who believe you’re inferior. This manipulation tactic is meant to belittle and demean. The narcissist can control you while covering up their toxic tracks.
Set Up for Failure
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