What is the difference between Manipulation and Indecisiveness ?

[xxaphroditexx]

How do you tell the difference between manipulation and indecisiveness?

Is it understandable and acceptable?

Should I "help" this partner or should I leave him/her?

How to have a happy relationship with someone like this?

[Pedantic]

I think those struck with indecision are genuinely curious about information that may effect what they think. They are interested in understanding more about the problem, decision, or situation.

A manipulative person is not interested in feedback.

As for acceptability, all people are manipulative to some extent. They want to look out for their best interests and will unconciously maneuver things in that direction. However, if dishonesty or coercion was invoked to aid that manipulation, then you have a morality issue on your hands.

If they are dishonest, you should not help this partner or attempt to be happy with them. If they are honest but just looking out for their own interests, I think giving them leeway is appropriate.

[Rodders]

The difference is the persons intention. Manipulation has a goal - a desired outcome. Indecisiveness is random and innocent. Bear that in mind and its quite easy to spot. Manipulation is normally to try and get you to satisfy some emotional need the manipulator has. I've been in the end if a true great manipulator in the regard.

If its manipulation - leave for sure. Always a bad relationship

If its indecisiveness - you are going to have difficulties but only you can decide if the person is with the hassle.

[MrAtticusLebowski]

These two traits seem completely different from each other. Not sure you even understand what you're asking (lol, no offense). Indecisiveness can be annoying but it's not malicious, not meant to hurt or take advantage of a person.

Manipulation does seem malicious. When you manipulate people, you're kinda using them for your own good. It's way more of a selfish, hurtful trait than indecisiveness.

I can deal with an indecisive person. All I need is plenty of patience and understanding.

People that try to manipulate me?...it makes me so f***ing angry. It's like they think I'm some marionette doll to serve their amusement. This type of selfish character trait is to be avoided all cost

[martyfellow]

Manipulation means they are capable, but pretend they are not, to ensnare you in their defense..

Indecisiveness is something the person can't help. Either they have insecurity they can't handle, or they are just in 'over their head' in a situation that they have not experience in handling.

If you have a 'partner' you should know the difference, or make it your priority to FIND OUT, right away!

[Anonymous]

You need to describe the situation at hand. You can't really tell the difference between the two unless you can find someone who truly knows that person. Are they deceitful or are they frivolous? Neither are wonderful qualities. Indecisiveness doesn't have to be a bad thing when it comes to things like what I want to wear for the day, in fact it usually helps when you have someone who is decisive to give you the preference answers.

[WillyZ]

I give up, what is it? Women stuff? Let me get the punchline please.