Emotional Manipulation Exposed: Understanding the Power and Control Wheel | Sex Education
In this powerful continuation of our conversation with Shawn and Amanda from the Touchy Subjects podcast, we dive deeper into the often-overlooked tactics of emotional and social abuse. While physical violence is more visible, the wounds caused by coercion, control, isolation, and emotional manipulation can be just as damaging—and harder to identify.
We break down the Power & Control Wheel, exploring the eight key tactics used by abusers to dominate their partners, including economic control, intimidation, emotional abuse, and using children or privilege as leverage. Shawn and Amanda offer expert insight, lived experiences, and practical tools to help listeners identify red flags in their own or loved ones' relationships.
This episode also features a compelling role-play to model what supportive conversations can sound like when someone discloses abuse, reminding us all how vital empathy, safety, and non-judgment are in these moments.
What You’ll Learn:
The difference between emotional and physical abuse—and why both matter
The 8 spokes of the Power & Control Wheel and what they look like in real life
How abusers use privilege, isolation, and economic dependency to maintain control
Why consent must be enthusiastic—and how coercion shows up in relationships
The importance of recognizing patterns early and having a support system
What to say (and not say) when someone opens up about abuse
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Resources Mentioned:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Touchy Subjects Podcast Website
Shawn & Amanda’s contact:
[email protected]
Content Warning:This episode contains discussions of emotional, sexual, and domestic abuse that may be triggering to some listeners. Please take care while listening.
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