How to Make Somebody Feel Guilty

Making someone feel guilty is normally not a good idea. Before doing so, it's a good idea to examine why you want to make someone feel that way. If, however, making someone feel guilty will serve a valid purpose, there are subtle ways in which this can be accomplished. With simple actions and words, you can make someone feel guilty about something they've said or done, providing the person you want to make feel guilty has the capacity for guilt.

Instructions

1. Talk to the person you would like to make feel guilty. Guilty means someone has done something he should not have done. In this context, it can also mean you want someone to feel bad about something he did or didn't do. Explain to him why he should feel guilty. This is important because he may not see the reasoning behind why he should feel guilty. To have the best chance of making someone feel guilty, establish the suggestion of guilt immediately and express your reasoning for believing someone should feel guilty. Maybe your significant other forgot your birthday. Begin the process with a statement like: "I would never forget your birthday. You're too important to me."

2. Give a cold shoulder to the person you're trying to make feel guilty. This doesn't mean you should ignore her entirely, but being somewhat distant after you've had the conversation about guilt with the person will give her time to consider the conversation in greater detail. This may result in feelings of guilt setting in.

3. Mope around the house and look sad. When you do speak to the person you want to make feel guilty, do so in a sad tone of voice, or a voice that suggests disappointment. Continue to drop little comments regarding the subject you want the person to feel guilty about. The trick is to reinforce those feelings of guilt.

Tips & Warnings

• Let the person off the hook if there is an apology and move on.

• Don't overdo any of these tactics to the point where there is a fight.

• Unless you are a total jerk, you should eventually forgive the person and move on.

References

• PsychCentral; Is It Okay to Make Someone Feel Guilty; Daniel J. Tomasulo

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish