When we talk about a controlling man, it doesn’t mean we are only talking about a person in a romantic relationship. A controlling man can be anyone or anywhere, like co-workers, friends, family, bosses, or even strangers.
But who exactly is a controlling man?
When you imagine a controlling man, it may remind you of an aggressive person, who barely listens to people, bullies loved ones, and always commands people to work for him.
Remember that people who are sweet to you initially can also change and become the controlling ones in the end and can make your life hell. The best way to avoid these men is to look for the right signs that prove that the one you love is not good for you.
Sometime’s it’s ok to want things from our significant other – but how much is too much?
Do you feel scared when you do something you know this man will not like?
Do you feel like your partner values your feelings and/or opinions?-
Does your partner listen to you and respect your decisions?
Do you feel like he holds power over you or tries to control you in any way?
Is it difficult for him to express his emotions in a healthy way?
Do they try to manipulate you into doing what they want instead of talking through the issue in a respectful manner?
Have there been moments where their anger has made things worse than necessary, such as using verbal abuse or intimidating behavior?
All you have to remind yourself is that nobody has the power to make you feel unloved, and you can start distancing yourself from controlling men whenever you want to.
Everyone has the right to walk away from anything that doesn’t bring happiness or peace in their life.
Continue reading this article to know some common signs of controlling men that you need to be aware of.
These signs might help you understand that someone has a controlling personality.
They make you think everything’s your fault.
Have you ever faced certain situations where people start making you feel that everything is your fault and you are the only culprit to problems?
Or start saying that it would be better if you haven’t done this?
If you’re being blamed for issues you haven’t created and things you haven’t done, it is a clear sign you are surrounded by a controlling man.
These signs don’t only appear in relationships; they can show up even among co-workers, family, or friends. After noticing the signs, it’s the perfect time to distance yourself from these kinds of people.
1. They criticize you all the time.
A controlling man always finds ways to criticize you and let your confidence down, whether in public or private places. Mentioned below are some examples of the kind of criticism you have to go through around controlling men:
- They constantly criticize you about how you get dressed.
- They start making insulting jokes about you in front of everyone and pretend as if it is normal.
- They quickly get pissed off when you don’t answer your phone.
- They never appreciate you when you do things right or better than them.
- They criticize you about the way you speak.
- They are always ready to highlight your flaws, like in family gatherings, at work, or in front of everyone.
2. They create drama
Sad couple having the serious argument
Some people always have fun creating unnecessary drama in front of people or in private.
Even if you talk to them about something in which you have achieved great success, they will change the topic and demotivate or blame you for what you have not done well.
An example of unnecessary dramatic behavior can be taking screenshots of your personal texts and sharing them with others to create more drama in your life. Such people have no motive but to do wrong to you and create nuisance in your life.
3. They’re moody
There are several types of moody people that you meet in your life. Some cranky fellows can even change their mood in seconds. At one moment, they appreciate you for something good, and the very next second, they start degrading you for being you.
And when a person doesn’t even say sorry for their actions or mistakes, they are definitely the controlling ones. They would never take responsibility for your happiness or your efforts to stay in such a relationship.
All you should care about is you and your happiness, and if you are not getting it from that one person, just walk away from that relationship.
4. They don’t take ‘no’ for an answer.
Boundaries are essential in all kinds of relationships, and both partners should feel free to make their own decisions.
A controlling man may not understand your boundaries and always try to persuade you to do uncomfortable things.
When a person starts putting pressure on you or doesn’t take ‘no’ as an answer, they are not suitable for you.
The men who start telling you what to do, when to do, what to wear, or who to meet are the ones you should altogether avoid.
5. They don’t want you to see the people you love
Controlling men show up with high authority over your life and continue to control you in every possible way.
They start staring at you aggressively when you are on a phone call with your loved ones or start groaning when you spend time with them or come home late.
They even start talking about how bad your friends or family are and ask you to stop hanging out with them. When they feel like you are under control, they won’t let you go out with other people, whether they are your family members or any friends.
6. They’re unreasonably jealous.
Being jealous when your partner hangs out with others can sometimes be cute in a relationship, but always getting angry or jealous is a toxic trait.
After getting continuously unreasonably jealous, they might start interrogating you about where you are going or whom you are seeing.
They might begin to talk rudely to you or shout every time you plan to go out with any of your friends or any family members. They might even make negative comments about you and your friends.
If they stop every time you hang out with others or have fun, it is a clear sign you are with a controlling man.
7. They try to change you.
Have you ever heard the line ‘The person who loves you will always accept you the way you are?’
Love never asks you to change, nor does the person who loves you.
So whenever a man asks you to change your beliefs or things that make you, you’re definitely in the wrong relationship with the wrong person.
If a person starts telling you to change your behavior, talking style, dressing sense or doesn’t take you out until you dress according to them, they are controlling people. All they want to do is control and change everything about you. However, you have the right to choose what you find best for yourself, do what you love, and listen to nobody in any relationship.
8. They keep score
Any relationship works well when there are equal efforts invested from both partners. But, when the efforts start coming from one side, it’s no longer a relationship. It’s just a deal—a deal where a person doesn’t invest or show efforts but keeps expecting things in return.
They can even leave you guilty if you don’t give what they demand and always keep talking about how much they do for you.
For example, if they paid for lunch once, they’ll keep telling you until it’s you paying for the dinner and always keep an eye on the number of favors they did to you.
9. They gaslight you
Young couple arguing in their living room
Gaslighting is when someone manipulates you into questioning your own reality. It is an insidious type of emotional abuse where the abuser (also called a gaslighter) manipulates you into questioning your own judgments and existence. These people start pointing you out and accuse you if you have an emotional personality, are a little more sensitive, and cry more often. Gaslighters convince their victims that they are mentally unfit, when they are just being a little sensitive.
Even when you are still upset about something that happened last week, gaslighters will start denying your thoughts and will blame you for being over-sensitive. Expressing your emotions is your right, and nobody should be allowed to gaslight you. It is your own life, no matter how sensitive you are.
10. They intimidate you
Controlling people can also start intimidating you to get control over you in any kind of relationship. For example, in the office, they can begin to let down your reputation by interrupting your talks, meetings and putting their own suggestions forward by acting superior in front of everyone.
Intimidation is also an act of controlling people that can show up in any relationship, but none of this matters when you are fierce and know your self-worth.
11. They may show abusive behavior.
When a person starts abusing you mentally or physically, whether in a relationship, friendship, or any other relation is said to be under domestic violence. Nobody has the right to feel this unloved or pressured by anyone.
Always remember that you deserve none of this and should walk right away from any physically and mentally abusive relationships. You have the power to walk away and know better! You should not do so much for the wrong person and still feel like you do not deserve love.
12.They do ultimatums
When someone starts giving ultimatums, it is a sign that they are trying to control the situation. Ultimatums can range from threats of breaking up if their demands are not met or going so far as to manipulate the other person into making decisions that may not be in their best interest. This type of behavior is unhealthy.
13.They guilt trip you:
Guilt tripping is a tactic used by some people to manipulate or control others. It involves using guilt and pressure to make someone do something they would otherwise not choose to do. Guilt trips often involve invoking feelings of shame, obligation, and responsibility in order to influence the behavior of another person. Unfortunately, this type of manipulation can be damaging both emotionally and psychologically, leaving victims feeling overwhelmed and powerless.
Someone is trying to guilt trip you, it’s important that you recognize their intentions for what they are: an attempt at controlling your decisions without actually asking for consent or considering your wants or needs.
14. They make you feel like your opinion is irrelevant
When someone makes you feel like your opinion is irrelevant, it can be one of the most damaging forms of manipulation. It communicates that what you have to say does not matter and that your perspective is not worth considering. This type of manipulation can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
15. They think they’re doing you a favor
Another common form of manipulation is when someone tries to convince you that they are doing you a favor. This type of manipulation occurs when the manipulator makes it seem like their actions or decisions are in your best interest, even though they’re really only looking out for themselves.
The goal of this kind of manipulation is to make you feel obligated to do something or behave in a certain way because the manipulator has done something “nice” for you.
It can be difficult to recognize this kind of manipulation as it often appears subtle and well-intentioned on the surface. However, if someone consistently uses guilt trips, ultimatums, intimidation, or other forms of psychological coercion to get what they want from you, then chances are that they’re not doing it out of genuine kindness or concern for your wellbeing.
16. They don’t think anything is wrong.
People who engage in manipulative behavior often don’t think there’s anything wrong with what they’re doing. They may even feel justified in their actions, believing that they are helping or protecting the other person by pushing them to do something that is beneficial for them. However, this kind of manipulation is actually incredibly damaging and can have long-term effects on a person’s self-esteem and wellbeing.
17. People view him as a great person
An attempt to make the other person believe that this person is above reproach and can do no wrong. He knows how to play the part in situations that will be benefitial to him. aying things like “everyone loves me” or “you don’t understand how much everyone looks up to me” are all tactics used by this type of controlling man to appear more powerful in the relationship.
In reality, these statements reflect his own insecurity and fear of being exposed as a controlling man.
18. Sex is weird with them.
Sex is a form of manipulation when someone uses it as a tool to control their partner or gain the upper hand in any situation. It can be subtle, such as using seduction or withholding sex, or it can be overt, like blackmailing for sexual favors. This kind of manipulation is damaging and should not be tolerated. If you
19. They diminish your goals and dreams
When someone is trying to control you, they may try to make you feel like your goals and dreams are not worth pursuing. They may do this by belittling the importance of your goals or dreams, making them seem unreasonable or impossible to achieve. It can be difficult to stay motivated and reach your goals.
It’s important that you recognize this kind of behavior for what it is, and that you don’t allow anyone to undermine your ambition. You deserve to pursue your dreams without judgement or criticism from others.
20. Need for constant contant:
A controlling man needs to be in constant contact with their partner in order to maintain control. He may check in with his partner multiple times a day, monitor their texts and calls, or even track their whereabouts without them knowing.
He may force you to have your location on at all times and say it’s for “security.”
This is a clear example of controlling behavior as it creates an environment of fear and mistrust. It’s important to recognize this type of behavior for what it is and that you don’t accept it in any relationship.
21. Pressure & move the relationship faster
You may feel constant pressure to move the relationship faster by making decisions on your behalf and expecting you to follow them. For example, he may decide when and where you should spend time together or make plans for the two of you without consulting you.
He may also push for a more committed relationship before either of you are emotionally ready in order to gain more control.
22. Blame you for things that you had no control over
A controlling man may attempt to blame you for things that are completely out of your control. He may be frustrated with problems as a way of deflecting responsibility away from himself and onto you. They will often do this by finding fault with decisions you make or things that are out of your control, such as work or family issues.
23. You catch him lying to you
Listen to your gut feeling. He may lie about any number of things, such as where he’s been, who he’s with, or what he’s doing. He may even go so far as to create elaborate stories and lies to cover up his tracks or to make himself seem more desirable.
If you suspect he’s lying or manipulating the truth, confront him about it. If he continues to lie and manipulate, it’s best to remove yourself from the situation as soon as possible.
How to get help?
If you find these controlling signs in your partner, are tired of their behavior already, and want someone to help you, you should talk to a professional that can help you get out of an abusive relationship.
Mentioned below are some resources that might help you for the following:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline is always available for you for almost 24 hours a day with a phone number provided (800-799-7233) to ensure your safety. You can talk about your situation and regulate the actions that need to be taken.
- Pathways to Safety International provides you with professional counseling and legal advocacy.
- Break the Cycle helps people aged 12 to 24 understand the signs of unhealthy relationships and offers tools and resources to native safe options.
How Having a Controlling Man in Your Life Can Affect You:
You may start to feel isolated and alone because of the lack of trust in your relationship.
– It can affect your emotional well being, as the constant pressure and put downs take away from your self worth.
– You might begin to lose interest in activities you used to enjoy due to a controlling partner’s need for constant attention and control
Other effects include:
– Loss of independence and autonomy
– Constant pressure to conform
– Lack of communication or trust
– Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
– Unhappiness or depression
– Fear, anxiety, stress and fatigue
– Difficulty in making decisions for yourself
– Low self esteem
– Isolation from friends and family
– Physical abuse
How to get rid of a controlling man ?
Sometimes dealing with people’s toxicity can be so annoying, whether they are your partner, a friend, any annoying family member, or a co-worker at the office, or any person.
We all have at least one toxic person in our lives that is so difficult to deal with. You must remember dealing with controlling or toxic men is not your concern, and instead, you must start distancing yourself from them. So, here are some tips about how you can get rid of such toxic people and their toxicity.
Talk to them about their behavior.
When someone starts unnecessarily gossiping about you to make you feel bad, you must take some action to stop them or make them realize how bad it’s affecting you again and again.
You can talk to them and declare that you no longer want to be in the relationship or friendship if they ever comment on you again. You can say that it isn’t appropriate to make people feel uncomfortable in front of their known people.
Offer compassion, but don’t try to fix them.
When you love someone, you will definitely try to put some effort into changing them. But it can only be possible if they are willing to change for you. If not, then you will keep drowning in their toxicity until you walk away from that relationship.
It’s good to be kind and show care to people you love, but your kindness can never be enough to make them change for you. If you want, you can try and wait for them to become a good person. But if they are not putting any effort back for you, then you should stop the idea of trying to fix them and should start focusing more on yourself and your happiness.
Say no and walk away.
There comes a time in your life when you are just done with peoples’ arrogance, behaviour, and your mind starts shouting that it’s enough!
Now that’s the time when you should stop allowing their stupid behaviour and start thinking about yourself.
It may be tough to say no to the people you love, but believe me, this is going to be so satisfying for you and put you to rest. It’s okay to walk away when you aren’t comfortable with the person, but it’s not okay to stay at a place where you are not valued or loved enough.
Remember, you aren’t at fault.
Toxic relationships can make you feel like it’s all your fault; it’s you who did it all wrong and will make you doubt your self-worth.
You need to remember that controlling people or their toxic behavior has nothing to do with you. It is challenging to deal with things like this, so take a deep breath, calm yourself, and let go of anything that can affect you.
They might start getting personal or can even say that it’s you who changed them and made them like this. But do not fall for such type of manipulation.
Instead of listening to them, just get up and leave.
Make yourself unavailable
The best way to deal with people’s toxic behaviour is to disappear completely so that they will no longer have the right to manipulate you or use you.
When you are never available for them, then their arrogance might also stop trying to contact you, and when they stop, it’s so better for you.
But until they don’t stop and k
eep putting aggressive accusations on you, you need to stay calm and remind yourself that it’s enough. Even if you feel guilty, but enough is enough.
Boundaries are essential when you can no longer deal with these controlling people or can tolerate them.
Limit your time together
Distance becomes so important when things start falling apart. Distance is the solution for literally everything. If you feel unloved, distance yourself. If you feel sad, distance yourself from those, who make you unhappy.
If you ever feel that the person is no longer responsible for your happiness and is causing you stress, simply start making distance.
When you deal with a person who thinks you are responsible for all problems on Earth, always pick a fight with you, show no interest in your feelings, then it’s time you spent the least time with them. If your presence doesn’t affect them in any way, your absence will never will.
Seek Therapy
Battling with people’s toxic behaviour can cause so much mental burden and depression, which is why it is important to seek therapeutic help. Sometimes we don’t understand the situation or even our own feelings, but a therapist will help you find clarity in everything.Sometimes talking to a professional therapist can also give you strength and courage to move forward with your life.
Make a Plan
Dealing with controlling people can be difficult and overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. One of the most important things you can do is make a plan for how you will handle the situation.
This plan should include both short-term strategies for managing your interactions with the controlling person as well as long-term goals that help create space between you and the other person. By taking steps to set boundaries, assert yourself, and build self-confidence, you can gain more control over your life while still maintaining a respectful relationship with the other person.
Put Yourself First
When dealing with a controlling person, it is important to remember that you have the right to put yourself first. This means setting boundaries, asserting yourself and your needs, and building self-confidence so that you can take control of your own life.
It may be difficult to do this in the face of someone who is trying to dominate or manipulate you, but by making a plan and taking small steps toward independence, you can break free from their influence while still maintaining respect for them as an individual.
Bottom line
Most of the time, cutting toxic people out of your life can be the most challenging decision in your life, especially when it comes to the ones you’re in love with. But it can make your life so easy and calm when you don’t have to deal with any of their toxicity in your life. Instead, you get the time and space to focus on many other things that give you happiness.
Always remember that nobody has any right to make anyone feel so bad about themselves. These controlling men or their toxic behaviour is none of your responsibility to deal with. So if you ever come across such people, take your time and move right away from that person and that relationship too.
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