In discussions, the act of shifting the factors for settlement throughout a debate is a typical manipulative tactic, particularly prevalent in unhealthy relationships. This conduct, usually noticed in people with narcissistic traits, entails regularly altering the requirements of what constitutes success or acceptability in an argument, thereby stopping the opposite occasion from ever “successful” or reaching decision. For instance, if an individual is criticized for constantly being late, they usually then arrive on time, the critic may then declare their punctuality is performative or that they had been late up to now, thus invalidating any progress made.
This argumentative technique serves a number of functions for the person using it. It maintains management over the scenario, avoids accountability, and reinforces a way of superiority. Traditionally, such techniques have been acknowledged as types of psychological manipulation inside interpersonal dynamics. The implications for the individual subjected to this conduct can embody emotions of frustration, confusion, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion. The constant lack of ability to fulfill the ever-changing calls for erodes vanity and hinders real communication.
