Predators on VR20:40 Dec 07 2008
Times Read: 996
It's funny, in a way, how the modus operandi of the sociopathic emotional manipulator works.
Often, it begins with the identification of similar interests. The predator will look through the info of the prey, select the items which touch that person deeply, and then they will begin to learn about those areas, gathering a smattering- enough to not be an expert, but at least open a conversation.
Then they will attempt to form a friendship, to connect- often with unsolicitated messages and invitations to know them, to know their secrets.
However, those 'secrets' are often false. They are designed to bring out sorrowful sympathies, to make the prey see the predator as a victim, someone who has suffered and deserves better.
And then the prey is encouraged to begin to share their own genuine feelings, worries, and secrets with the predator, forming a bonding hook.
The next move is for the predator to bring in the minions- those who have already been duped lock, stock and barrel. The minions will be required to make friends with the prey, even if they don't really want to. But because the predator is the one pulling the puppet strings, who holds the sway over them, they will jump right in feet first, perhaps without even realising that they too are being manipulated.
Often, those minions will not have any real interest in the prey. Their only goal is to see their puppet master happy in the game.
And 'game' isn't really what it should be called, as that implies a much more innocent character to what is a sickeningly nefarious agenda. The game isn't even conciously acknowledged, or discussed openly, except by the most devious and callous of predators and minions who they trust enough to let them see the truth.
Another side of this game, is for the predator and their minions to seek an isolation of their target, to pull them into their clique and erect barriers between them and those who have proven trusts. Tactics will include engaging in inapprorpiate conversations about topics only close friends would have. Sometimes difficult subjects, often highly charged with emotion. Then a questioning of where other friends are to support, and the deeper identification of 'I know what you're going through', coupled with the minions offering small comforts here and there.
Further into this behaviour, we see that anyone who threatens their web of deceits, will be targeted to undermine their influence over the prey. These could be previous prey, or those who recognise the sociopath and will seek to prevent them from further machinations. Tactics will include a rubbishing of opinions, unfair criticisms of behaviour. Slanders and outright lies, which will be disguised as gossip, and then painting them as the villain in previous interactions with the predator.
The worst part of all this, is that the predator will not only have one prey, but several prey on tender hooks simultaneously. They will each be offered a close personal relationship, better and more deeply felt than they have had before. They will be shown a greener pasture, a hope of something lovely, bright and enticing. Sex is a factor here, as is the promise of unconditional love.
But at the end of the game, once the predator has had their fill, all they will receive is a rejection, be emotionally torn and this possibly resulting in lasting damage to the ability to trust.
COMMENTS
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LaceworkLacerations
03:43 Dec 27 2008
I think I was. I didn't feel Christmassey at all.
I wasn't cranky though.
birra
04:18 Dec 27 2008
Heh.. I didn't even get in line.. I hate long lines.
placidchaos
06:08 Dec 27 2008
I usually stand a few paces from it and give it a malevolent stare. This year I actually got in line at the last minute.
Irony
22:18 Dec 28 2008
I had a strange moment this morning when I felt a surge of christmas spirit on watching a scene from Empire Strikes Back. I guess I associate my christmasses with Star Wars:P