Guarding against manipulation by criminal offenders

Abstract

This article examines ways in which offenders manipulate Correctional employees, what makes us vulnerable to their tactics and how we can protect our self from manipulation and harm. The author argues that everyone is vulnerable to manipulation. Rather than just focusing on our weaknesses, manipulators often play on our strengths, our best qualities, the things that make us a decent human being. For example, a skilled manipulator can use your sense of ethics and conscientiousness against you; your openmindedness , optimism and compassion can also be a risk. A ‘Risk of Manipulation’ scale developed by the author helps us review our personal risk factors, so we can mange our situation, personality traits, attitudes and vulnerabilities more effectively. A ‘Safeguards against Manipulation’ checklist by the author highlights the many powerful tools we have available to keep us safe; tools such as knowledge, professionalism, teamwork, time, training and vigilance. This article contains valuable insights for everyone who deals with criminal offenders.