Yes, manipulation is considered a form of psychological abuse. Psychological abuse involves the use of tactics to control, manipulate, or harm another person emotionally or mentally. Manipulation can be particularly insidious as it often involves subtle tactics to undermine the victim's self-esteem, confidence, and decision-making abilities.
Some common manipulative tactics include gaslighting (making someone doubt their perception of reality), guilt-tripping, emotional blackmail, and playing on a person's vulnerabilities to gain control over them. The manipulator may use these tactics to maintain power and dominance over the victim, causing emotional distress, anxiety, and a sense of powerlessness.
Psychological abuse, including manipulation, can have long-lasting and damaging effects on the victim's mental and emotional well-being, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. It is essential to recognize the signs of manipulation and take appropriate steps to address it, such as seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, and, in some cases, removing oneself from the abusive situation.