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30 Characteristics of (Narcissistic) Manipulators

Updated: Oct 23, 2022

30 Characteristics of Manipulators

Posted on Psychology and Wellness Centre

Narcissistic Abuse and Guidance with Randi Fine

Isabelle Nazare-Aga, psychotherapist, lecturer and author, has developed 30 characteristics of manipulators over a period of seven years and the list was published in 1997 in the book “Les manipulateurs sont parmis nous”. This list applies to both women and men. Read this list while thinking about the person you suspect.

If at least 14 criteria out of 30 are met, the person in question is a manipulator. Most people get more than 20 points out of 30. People with fewer than eight of the listed characteristics are not considered to have a manipulative personality.

1. They make other people feel guilty, in the name of professional conscience, family ties, friendship, love, etc.

2. They unload their responsibilities onto others or dismiss their own responsibilities.

3. They do not clearly communicate their requests, needs, feelings or opinions.

4. They often respond vaguely.