In discussions, the act of shifting the standards for settlement throughout a debate is a typical manipulative tactic, particularly prevalent in unhealthy relationships. This habits, usually noticed in people with narcissistic traits, entails frequently altering the requirements of what constitutes success or acceptability in an argument, thereby stopping the opposite get together from ever “profitable” or reaching decision. For instance, if an individual is criticized for constantly being late, and so they then arrive on time, the critic would possibly then declare their punctuality is performative or that they have been late previously, 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 particular person subjected to this habits can embrace emotions of frustration, confusion, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion. The constant lack of ability to fulfill the ever-changing calls for erodes shallowness and hinders real communication.
