When one person exerts excessive control over another person’s life, it can be referred to as various terms, depending on the context and the nature of the control.

Some common terms and phrases used to describe this behavior include…

1. Manipulation – Manipulation involves using tactics, such as deceit, guilt-tripping, or emotional coercion, to control or influence someone’s thoughts, feelings, or actions.
2. Domination – Domination refers to the exercise of power and control over another individual, often in a forceful or oppressive manner.
3. Coercion – Coercion involves using threats, intimidation, or pressure to compel someone to comply with another person’s desires or demands.
4. Emotional Abuse – Emotional abuse encompasses behaviors that aim to control or harm someone emotionally, including humiliation, degradation, and manipulation of emotions.
5. Gaslighting – Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which one person tries to make another person doubt their own perceptions, memories, or sanity, often leading to greater control over their thoughts and behaviors.
6. Codependency – Codependency is a dysfunctional relationship pattern in which one person excessively relies on another for emotional support and validation, often leading to controlling behaviors.
7. Enmeshment – Enmeshment refers to a lack of healthy boundaries in a relationship, where individuals become overly involved in each other’s lives and may control or manipulate one another.
8. Controlling or Controlling Behavior – Simply referring to someone as “controlling” or describing their actions as “controlling behavior” highlights the exertion of influence over another person’s life.

Exerting excessive control over someone’s life can be emotionally and psychologically harmful and may involve behaviors that are abusive or manipulative. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, trust, and the freedom for each individual to make their own choices and decisions.

If you or someone you know is experiencing controlling or abusive behavior in a relationship, it’s important to seek help and support. This can include reaching out to a trusted friend or family member, contacting a counselor or therapist, or seeking assistance from a domestic violence or abuse hotline or organization. Remember that everyone deserves to be in a safe and healthy relationship.