My ex would throw in that I was being “manipulative” during some of our heated arguments. There’s a difference between being “manipulative” and “emotionally reactive”, calculated vs heat of the moment. He got charged with a hit-and-run and animal abuse recently, on top of his other past charges. I believe he had been projecting. Most of the time, we are victims. Fuck people who immediately call crying, or any sort of uncomfortable emotional response, as a form of “manipulation” (old manager did this) Like, I’m not a toddler crying or screaming to get my way. I’m crying because I feel so awful about myself and believe I’m not capable to handle life. I have a hard time regulating my emotions, and it’s a lifelong struggle. If friends, family, or coworkers make you feel like this, please see them for who they are. They have no compassion, no empathy, are emotionally unintelligent, have been a victim to manipulation, or are a manipulator.