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14. Minimization Minimization is a manipulation strategy which includes the capability of
manipulators to make people think that their mistakes are not as big as people think they are.
“This tactic is a unique kind of denial coupled with rationalization. When using this maneuver, the aggressor attempting to assert their abusive
behavior isn’t really as harmful or irresponsible as someone else may be claiming. It’s the aggressor’s attempt to make a mole-hill out of a
mountain.”Simon 2000:92
2.6.2. Language Manipulation Motives
The term “motive” according to English Thesaurus 2011 has the synonyms with “intention”, “drive”, or “aim”. Therefore when we talk about
manipulation motives, we are essentially talking about the intention of the speaker behind their manipulative statements, which in pragmatics are called as
illocutions. According to Braiker 2004:54-57, manipulators often do the act of
manipulating for these three interpersonal motives: 1. To advance manipulator’s own purposes
Manipulators feel the need to have their personal gain upon other people. Braiker 2004:54 then states that manipulators are entirely self-serving and
selfish by disposition, even if they say otherwise. Manipulators will say and do everything necessary to advance their own purposes. They might refer themselves
to be honest, unselfish and trustworthy individuals, in order to gain your complete trust so that their purposes can be fulfilled.
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2. To attain feelings of power and superiority Manipulators want to feel that they are superior and possess all the power
to conquer his targets. Braiker 2004:55 claims that manipulators want to be acknowledged and validated. This actually roots from the fact that manipulators
basically are people with inferiority and low self-esteem. They use manipulative strategies to hide these poor feelings in disguise, so that they appear to be people
with bold self-confidence. They need to demonstrate that they are superior to compensate for feelings of inferiority and inadequacy.
3. To feel in control of manipulator’s own emotions Manipulators are essentially people with high level of anxiety. Braiker
2004:56 states that they want to feel in control of their emotions that symbolise weaknesses, such as anxiety, sadness and loneliness. They need to be seen that
they are able to control themselves. This need that manipulators have actually extends beyond their desires or needs to control others. They do not want to feel
like they are losing control and finally being controlled by others. Manipulators intend to manage their emotions as fine as possible in order to succeed in
manipulating others.
2.7. Previous Study
