33 Characteristics of a Conspiratorial Person and Secrets to Defeating Their Sly Tactics

What is a scheming person and how can you make sure you don’t fall for their tricks? Dive in to uncover, understand, and stay ahead of the curve!

Do you know Scar from The Lion King? A cunning villain with a luxurious mane and less-than-fantastic intentions? While scrolling through social media, see her picture in jeans and t-shirt. He’s your real life sly guy.

defining conspiratorial personality

We have all met him. It seems that the scheming guy is a master of the art of saying one thing and plotting a completely different thing. It’s like trying to read a text in a group chat where half the messages are in code. So, what makes these individuals tick?

Psychologically speaking, a conspiratorial person isn’t just influenced by a lot of creepy characters on TV.

Often, their behavior is consistent with what psychologists call “Machiavellianism” – a personality trait that involves using cunning and duplicity in interpersonal relationships. These individuals display systematic and calculating qualities.

No, not all conspiracy figures sport such twistable villain mustaches. But they definitely come with their own set of telltale signs!

The next time you’re wondering whether you’re dealing with a scheming person or someone who is really good at board games, keep an eye out for these clues below.

Signs You’re Dealing with a Connivant

Life isn’t always like a mystery novel, but sometimes, we encounter characters that make us feel as if we’re right in the middle of an Agatha Christie story. So how can one identify a conspirator amidst everyday scenarios?

Let’s decode.

1. Imbalanced listening

This is because a conspirator is often more interested in gathering information than engaging in conversation. They’re like human vacuum cleaners, sucking up details without revealing much about themselves.

2. Constant color change

A scheming person may adapt his personality, beliefs or even his likes and dislikes depending on the people around him. It’s not just being a good social chameleon, it changes colors so often that you wonder if their color is real.

3. Too many secrets

Have you ever tried to get a straight answer from someone and felt like you were pulling teeth? A conspirator often operates under layers of secrets and half-truths.

They may leave vague hints about things or avoid direct questions. Because, apparently, mystery waves are the new black.

4. Best time

They seem to have a sixth sense for opportunities, whether it’s offering a “helping hand” when you’re most vulnerable or showing up when there’s a possibility of achieving something.

5. Selective memory

They remember what they like and “forget” what they don’t like. So, if a fraudulent person owes you money, expect to lose his memory. But if you owe them? Heck, they’ll remember the exact date, time, and even the weather.

6. Overload of flattery

No, they’re not just sweet-talking, they’re trying to butter you up for some future agenda. Because who can resist a guy who thinks you’re pretty amazing, right?

7. Always one up

Did you have a bad day? He has suffered worse than this. Found a 10 dollar bill on the street? Once he got 20 dollars.

8. Emotionally unavailable

They are there, but also not there. A scheming person often keeps his emotions locked up tighter than Fort Knox. Although they are adept at detecting and manipulating the emotions of others, they are adept at keeping their own feelings a secret.

9. Expert Theft

Got any difficult questions or surrounded them with logic? Watch a scheming man dance around it with the grace of a ballet dancer. They avoid, deflect, or even deflect distracting counter-questions. They do this to avoid accountability and maintain control over the conversation.

Imagine being asked why they didn’t go to an important meeting, and instead of answering, they mention the time you were late. By removing the focus, they put you on the defensive and avoid the original question.

10. Promise of overload

Yet, when push comes to shove, they often make excuses or simply “forget.”

11. Half stories and long stories

When the story of a con man sounds more like a Hollywood script than a real-life incident, eyebrows should be raised. He has a talent for exaggeration, sometimes sharing only half the story or embellishing details to serve his narrative.

12. Sudden change in attitude

A conspirator will often change his or her opinions or stances depending on his or her audience, with the goal of getting along with or appealing to the majority.

13. Safe from gadgets

Have you ever seen someone being overly protective about their phone or computer? While secrecy is necessary, a scheming person may be over-protective, afraid that you might stumble upon their secrets or double dealings.

14. Conditional kindness

His nuances come through. A scheming person’s kindness often feels transactional. You’ll think they’re being very kind to help you with your move, only to find out later that it came with hidden expectations.

15. Drama Magnet

Somehow, a scheming person always finds themselves at the center of drama or controversy. They may play the innocence card, but often, whether to attract attention or to divert attention, they have a hand in instigating the matter.

Imagine there is some drama going on in the office, and you later find out that they were the ones spreading the rumours. By creating chaos, they divert attention from their own actions and throw everyone else off balance.

16. Divide and rule

A trick as old as time. A scheming person may discreetly pit friends or colleagues against each other, creating divisions that they can take advantage of. It’s as if they learned from ancient war strategies!

17. Lord of the Wrong Direction

They may bring up some unrelated emotional incident or derail you by showering you with affection suddenly.

18. Extremely sympathetic

It’s one thing to be empathetic, but a cunning person uses empathy as a tool. They can test your weaknesses, not to console but to later use them as leverage or to manipulate.

You tell them you’re having a bad day, and suddenly they’re offering the perfect words to gain your trust. Later, they can use this information to manipulate you and exploit your vulnerabilities to their advantage.

19. Unbroken eye contact

20. Vacuum of verification

They crave validation and are constantly looking for praise or reassurance. They are primarily concerned with how they are treated, and this need is not just about boosting their ego. It’s often about making sure they still have influence or control over the narrative and the people around them.

By seeking constant validation, they maintain a hold on others’ perceptions and keep themselves the center of attention.

Why do people become conspirators? The psychology behind the trick

Although it’s tempting to imagine that every rookie had their ice cream stolen in childhood, leading them down a dark path, the reality is more complex.

1. Nature vs. nurture debate

The age-old question – are we bound to certain traits, or are they imprinted on us by our environment? When it comes to collusion, it is probably a mixture of both.

Some people may have a genetic predisposition to such symptoms, which makes them more susceptible. Yet, without certain environmental factors, these symptoms may never fully manifest.

2. Attachment theory

The roots are often linked to our early relationships. According to attachment theory, children who grow up with inconsistent or unpredictable caregiving may develop manipulative behaviors as a coping mechanism.

3. Adverse Childhood Experiences *ACE*

Negative events in childhood, ranging from neglect and abuse to more subtle forms of trauma, can lead to maladaptive behavior in adulthood.

A scheming person may have encountered situations where deception was a means of survival, or where they felt that being straightforward could put them at risk.

4. Social environment and peer influence

Growing up or spending a significant amount of time in an environment where clever behaviors are rewarded can shape a person.

If a young adult sees that colluding yields results—be it popularity, material gain, or power—they may adopt similar strategies.

5. Fear of insecurity

Past experiences of betrayal or hurt may have taught them that showing their true self is risky. So, to protect themselves, they wear masks, play games and keep people at a distance from each other.

6. Need for control

Basically, many conniving individuals have a strong need for control over their environment and the people in it. This may arise from feelings of powerlessness in the past.

7. Reinforcement and learned behavior

Sometimes, it’s as simple as learning that collusion works. If a person consistently profits from fraudulent tactics without facing adverse consequences, he or she will likely continue. This is basic behaviorism; Behaviors that are rewarded tend to be repeated.

When You’ve Been Betrayed: What to Do?

Okay, accept it. As you read these signs and causes, a face or two may come to your mind.

1. Trust but verify

It’s like taking advice from the ancient Stoics as we move into the digital age. When a conspiracy theorist shares information, don’t immediately discard it, but take a moment to double-check.

Make sure you have all the facts before making a decision. It’s a bit like double-checking before spreading a juicy piece of gossip—sometimes, things are not what they seem.

2. Speak their language

You don’t have to resort to manipulation yourself, but knowing their strategies can help you stay one step ahead. It’s like knowing the rules of chess—you may not always win, but you’ll definitely play smarter.

3. Know when to fold them

Not every battle is worth fighting. It is important to recognize that it is time to distance yourself from a scheming person.

4. Establish boundaries

Just as a painter needs a canvas, a crafty person thrives where boundaries are undefined.

Clearly outline what is and is not acceptable in your conversation. By setting firm boundaries, you restrict the playing field to manipulate and control situations.

5. Ask for support

They may offer insight you haven’t considered, or simply be there as a pillar of support when dealing with a manipulative person.

6. Stay true to yourself

Amidst the clever games and tips, don’t forget who you are. It’s easy to get caught up in this and start second guessing yourself.

Transforming Conspiratorial Energy into Positive Results

So, you’re nodding, and a secret thought comes to you: “Wait, am I the scheming person being described here?” First of all, congratulations self-awareness!

Having some virtues does not mean that you are destined to be villainous. With a change here and a nudge there, you can direct these energies in positive, impactful directions.

1. Channel Traits for Good

Unite people for community service, be the voice of those who cannot speak, or lead teams with clarity and conviction. Being influential is not bad; It’s about how and where you make an impact.

2. Empathy Training

Perhaps you’ve been the strategic one, always three steps ahead. But have you considered using that clairvoyance to better understand and connect with others?

Deep connection with others can transform the most calculating mind into a compassionate heart.

3. Use Insights to Mediate

If you have been…