The term "hoovering" is one that has gained notoriety in the field of interpersonal relationships, especially in the context of toxic or abusive relationships. It refers to a manipulative tactic in which a person tries to attract back into their life someone who has tried to distance themselves or has cut off contact with them. This tactic gets its name in reference to the brand of a vacuum cleaner, suggesting that the person doing the hoovering attempts to suck the victim back into their life, in the same way that a vacuum cleaner sucks up dust. /p>
The impact of hoovering on relationships
"Hoovering" can have a devastating impact on relationships, as it undermines the autonomy and emotional health of the person who is the object of this manipulative strategy. Hoovering is often used as an attempt to maintain control over the other person, to reinforce emotional dependency, or to continue to exert power and dominance over them. This tactic can be especially harmful in abusive relationships, where the abuser attempts to keep the victim trapped in a cycle of abuse and manipulation.
Hoovering can also cause confusion and anxiety in the person experiencing it, as It can be difficult to identify the other person's true intentions and set healthy boundaries. Additionally, it can lead to feelings of guilt, doubt, and insecurity in the victim, which can further hinder their ability to walk away from the toxic relationship.
Signs of hoovering
Identify hoovering In a relationship it can be complicated, as the tactics used are often subtle and manipulative. However, there are some signs that may indicate that a person is trying to hoover a relationship:
- Constant Contact: The person doing the hoovering may try to maintain constant contact through calls, text messages, emails or social networks, even after the other person has expressed a desire to walk away.
- Plattery and promises: You may resort to excessive flattery, promises of change or sudden declarations of love with the aim of seducing the other person back.
- Emotional manipulation: You may appeal to empathy, generate feelings of guilt or induce pity in the other person to get them to return to the relationship.
- Behavior change: You can adopt an apparently positive behavior or change temporarily to give the impression that he has changed, with the intention of regaining the trust of the other person.
- Discrediting the other person: You can try to discredit the other person in front of his social environment or create rumors to force their return.
It is important to be attentive to these signs and be aware that hoovering is a manipulative strategy that seeks to undermine the autonomy and emotional health of the person who is object of it. Recognizing these tactics is the first step in being able to protect yourself and establish clear boundaries in a toxic relationship.
Psychological impact of hoovering
Hoovering can have a profound impact on the psychological health of the person. person who experiences it, which can trigger a series of negative emotions and reactions. Some of the psychological consequences of hoovering may include:
- Emotional confusion: The person may feel confused about their own feelings and perceptions, as the manipulative tactics of hoovering They tend to distort reality and generate constant doubts.
- Anxiety and stress: The constant contact and emotional pressure exerted by the other person can generate anxiety, stress and insecurity in the victim. .
- Low self-esteem: Hoovering can undermine a person's self-esteem and self-confidence, making them feel inadequate or guilty for having set boundaries.
- Emotional dependency: Emotional manipulation and reinforcement of dependency can make the person feel unable to walk away from the toxic relationship, keeping them trapped in a cycle of abuse and manipulation.
- Anxiety or depression disorders: Prolonged and continuous hoovering can trigger anxiety or depression disorders in the person, affecting their mental health and general well-being.
It is essential to seek psychological and emotional support if you are experiencing hoovering in a relationship, since having the support of a mental health professional can help manage negative emotions, establish healthy boundaries and make decisions that promote personal well-being.
Conclusions
In conclusion, hoovering is a manipulative tactic that seeks to maintain control and power over a person in a relationship, undermining their autonomy and emotional health. Identifying the signs of hoovering and understanding its psychological impact are essential steps to protect yourself and establish clear boundaries in a toxic relationship.
If you find yourself in a hoovering situation, it is important to seek help and support to manage the signs. emotions and make decisions that favor your well-being and mental health. Remember that no one has the right to exercise control over you or manipulate you emotionally, and that establishing healthy boundaries is essential to maintaining healthy and respectful relationships.