IDENTIFYING AND UNDERSTANDING COMMON MIND GAMES ?
There are many reasons for people playing mind games. It is critical to be aware of the individual playing the mind game and equally as vital to understand the context in which that person plays their game. How we react to these games is crucial in understanding how to deal with them in the future.
A colleague or friend playing a mind game is distinguishably different from a partner or family member playing a mind game but there can be certain themes which are the same. Learning the multifaceted nature of mind games will better equip you to deal with the extremely complex and mostly illogical reason for such games.
A chief reason people play mind games is to gain, preserve or acquire control. If they can elicit a particular response from you, or move you to do what they want, then this gives them the powerful feeling they are looking for, which makes them feel in control of you and the situation.
The best way to deal with a person playing mind games is to rise above them and the situation. Avoid the urge to beat them or come out on top, as this can readily end up with everyone getting hurt.
Useful resource – TED Talks video:
-8 Signs of a Toxic Friendship – www.youtube.com/watch?v=-94Ql0UphdA
-Psychological abuse – caught in harmful relationships- www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fYyVUXFZ3U