Our team at Thriveworks recently interviewed one of our clinical experts to find out more about what it means to “play the victim,” why people do it, and how to deal with someone when they play the victim. These insights are provided by Dr. Brandy Smith, a Licensed Psychologist with…
People who have narcissistic tendencies can be very charming when you first meet them, but are sometimes manipulative and disrespectful to those around them to get what they want. Though narcissists can change if they seek help and commit to bettering themselves, it can be extremely difficult for them to…
Spotting emotional manipulation is vital—and unfortunately, deceptive behaviors are all too common in many relationships. Whether you’re struggling with manipulative communication, actions, or experiences, it’s crucial to safeguard your emotional health and protect your relationships and yourself. We’ve assembled a streamlined guide to understanding and dealing with emotional manipulation. Learn…
Narcissism can be a destructive pattern that affects the lives of others as well as those with it. Because of this, many wonder whether narcissism is a treatable condition — whether narcissists can change. Those with narcissism or narcissistic traits can certainly change. The key, however, is that they need…
The basis of all healthy relationships typically includes empathy, patience, and mutual support between everyone involved. But in a narcissistic relationship pattern, these healthy markers aren’t usually present. One of the key indicators of narcissism is a disregard for the well-being of others. In a relationship with a narcissistic individual,…
Few things betray someone’s trust more than infidelity. It’s ruined many marriages, committed relationships, and families—but still, people continue to cheat on their partners. Whether you’ve been cheated on or have been unfaithful in past relationships, you’re probably curious—why do people cheat? And how can you recognize the signs? We…
Picture this: You’re on the perfect first date. The charming stranger sitting across from you orders you both another glass of wine with a wry grin, and as the waiter walks toward the bar, he starts weaving together a dreamlike description of the life you both might have together. You’re…
Kids often feel pressure from their parents to succeed. For the most part, this comes from a place of love and wanting the best for their children. However, sometimes parents can put too much pressure on their children, to the point where it starts hurting them. When parents expect too…
Abuse is a dangerous and prevalent issue for many people. However, it can be incredibly nuanced, which can make the abuse difficult to identify. One type of abuse that happens frequently is called reactive abuse. Reactive abuse is much like gaslighting, as it’s a tactic used by perpetrators of abuse…
Camille and Amma couldn’t be more different. Camille is a 30-something journalist who prefers to stay under the radar. Amma, on the other hand, is her more outgoing and rebellious kid sister. That said, there is one common thread between them: their mother Adora. Or more specifically, her abuse. If…
Trust issues are characterized by fear of betrayal, abandonment, or manipulation. And this fear is often triggered as a result of betrayal (such as infidelity), abandonment (think: leaving a child or foregoing a relationship with them), or manipulation (for example, dishonesty or gaslighting). If you’re reading this, it’s possible that…
The idea of brainwashing had a viral moment in the 1950s when the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) decided to wage psychological warfare against Communism. Project MKUltra secretly experimented with “mind control” techniques, dosing people with lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) without their consent. In fact, at one point the CIA…
