Reverse Psychology
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This or That Volume 7 Contest
sponsored by Edward Ibeh ~ September 11, 2024
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My father was the wisest man I've ever known.
He never raised his voice or even a hand to me.
It wasn't until I was older, and the years had flown
that I realized his wisdom was reverse psychology.
Dad asked a lot of questions and gave me leeway
to allow me to decide for myself, right or wrong.
Some decisions made; I must admit led me astray
but Dad's guidance kept me from being headstrong.
I was never disobedient or rebellious as a child
but Dad's approach to rearing was a good technique.
He avoided saying, "No" to me, and when he smiled,
his gentile persuasion was not in words to speak.
I remember thinking I didn't want to be college bound
Dad didn't argue the point, saying, "It's your decision."
Another accepting smile left me thinking, how profound!
I was having second thoughts that might need revision.
Reverse psychology is an effective form of influence.
If told not to do something, most people can't resist.
Or a suggestion that we SHOULD seems an issuance
like a command. A strategic method to cease and desist.
It's a game of mind control without brain cells knowing
that they're being subtly manipulated in an influential way.
Without telling a falsehood and having a nose growing,
it's an intervention where the opposite outcome is in play.
Copyright © Lin Lane | Year Posted 2024
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