manipuláció

Manipuláció refers to the act or process of influencing another person’s thoughts, feelings, or actions, often through indirect, concealed, or deceptive means. It occurs in a wide range of situations, including personal relationships, workplaces, media, politics, and advertising. While influence is not inherently harmful, manipulation typically refers to ways that compromise an individual’s autonomy, often without explicit consent.

Interpersonal manipulation includes tactics such as emotional appeals, guilt, gaslighting, and selective disclosure. In organizational settings, manipulation may appear as political maneuvering, information control, or pressure to conform. In media and politics, it covers propaganda, misinformation, framing, and agenda setting aimed at shaping beliefs or behavior. In consumer contexts, persuasive techniques in advertising seek to influence choices and preferences.

Psychology discusses several mechanisms by which manipulation operates, including reciprocity, social proof, authority, scarcity, and framing. These mechanisms can be deliberate or arise from biased communication and may occur as part of persuasive messaging rather than inherently malicious acts.

Ethical considerations distinguish between transparent influence and exploitative manipulation. Deceptive or coercive manipulation can erode trust, damage relationships, and may entail legal or professional sanctions in some domains. Defenses include critical thinking, media literacy, scrutiny of motives, and clear disclosure of intent when possible.

Historically, manipulation has been studied across disciplines, from psychology and sociology to political science and communication. Understanding its mechanisms and ethical boundaries helps individuals and organizations promote autonomy and informed decision-making.