10 Manipulative Behaviors in Children (Explained Briefly): Emotional Blackmail When a child uses strong emotions like crying or anger to influence a decision or get their way. Playing One Parent Against the Other Using comparisons (“Dad lets me!”) to create conflict and gain advantage. Guilt Tripping Making adults feel bad for setting boundaries or saying “no.” Showing Attitude Using tone, sarcasm, or disrespect to pressure caregivers to comply. Selective Hearing Ignoring instructions they don’t