Using threats and coercion in order to get what they want is a textbook case of emotional manipulation. For example, your partner will warn you that the relationship is over if you don’t do exactly what they ask. There is nothing that is more toxic when they pull out the “I will leave you” card since they’re putting you in an impossible position where you are doing things you don’t want to, and yet you desperately want the relationship to work. They might even threaten to hurt themselves if they don’t get their way. This threat of self-harm might be a ruse, but regardless it is something that you must take seriously, even if it means calling 911 to get them help.
Withdrawal and Withholding
Another technique that people use when they are manipulators is withdrawing from you. This could be refusing to talk when you are doing something they disagree with. Furthermore, they might act extremely cold, withhold information, or even “punish” you by withholding sex, even when the issue is extremely minor. They will continue to do this until they get their way or until you apologize for things that you aren’t even to blame for.
