Guilt-tripping Definition, Signs, Examples, and How to Respond
                     Guilt-tripping: Definition, Signs, 
Examples, and How to Respond
By - Talk Your Heart Out
What is Guilt-
tripping?
Guilt-tripping occurs when a person 
makes another feel guilty, to manipulate 
them into doing something. It is a form 
of passive aggressive behaviour that 
results from the person’s lack of ability 
or unwillingness to communicate openly, 
honestly, and assertively.
Signs of Guilt-
tripping
Guilt-tripping can appear in many 
ways. At times, guilt-tripping may 
be obvious. At other times, guilt 
trips may slip under the radar. 
Here are some telltale signs of 
guilt-tripping.
How to Respond
Many factors play a role in determining 
how you may respond to guilt-tripping. 
These include your ability to 
communicate assertively, the gravity of 
the situation, the impact of the guilt 
trip on you, and even the amount of 
time you have in that moment
Recognise and 
acknowledge the guilt 
trip
Start with self-awareness. The first 
step is to be aware of what is 
happening. Know the signs of guilt-
tripping. Recognise and 
acknowledge the guilt trip for what 
it is.
Understand the impact of 
guilt-tripping on you
Are there other emotions present 
besides guilt? Could there be any 
resentment? Fear? Anger? What might 
be underlying these emotions? In what 
other situations do you remember 
feeling this way? What thoughts are 
running through your mind?
When you are being 
guilt-tripped
It can be helpful to start by 
understanding that another person’s 
behaviour is out of your control. No 
matter how hard you try to convince 
them, how they choose to behave is 
ultimately their decision. Focus instead 
on what you can control – your 
response. Do what you can.
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