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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 © | Year Posted 2024




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Date: 9/27/2024 7:07:00 AM
Such a fantastic penning, Lin. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Heartiest congratulations on your win in my contest!
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Date: 9/12/2024 7:01:00 AM
A good take on the contest theme, Lin. Nicely flowing rhyming narration.
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Lin Lane
Date: 9/12/2024 7:04:00 AM
Thank you very much.
Date: 9/11/2024 3:51:00 PM
...now put it in reverse and slowly let the clutch out.....Nice take on the topic Lin. My dad used "witticisms" such as "If wishes were horses beggars would ride"
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Lin Lane
Date: 9/12/2024 7:03:00 AM
I learned to drive on a tractor, so I know about releasing the clutch. Thanks, John.
Date: 9/11/2024 12:34:00 PM
Brilliant writing Lin, your quill is on fire. Good luck in the contest. Hope the storm soon passes. Tom
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Lin Lane
Date: 9/12/2024 7:03:00 AM
Thank you for commenting, Tom. I'm ok.
Date: 9/11/2024 10:03:00 AM
Nice poem
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Lin Lane
Date: 9/12/2024 7:02:00 AM
Thanks.

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