reverse psychology: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “reverse psychology” mean?
A persuasion technique where you advocate for the opposite of what you actually want, expecting the person will then choose the desired outcome.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A persuasion technique where you advocate for the opposite of what you actually want, expecting the person will then choose the desired outcome.
A method of influencing behavior or gaining compliance by suggesting an action opposite to the one desired, based on the psychological principle of reactance (the urge to resist persuasion).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference; both use the same term. The concept is equally recognized.
Connotations
Informal, conversational. Can carry a negative connotation of manipulation, or a positive/playful connotation in parenting or light persuasion.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “reverse psychology” in a Sentence
to use reverse psychology on someoneThat's just reverse psychology.It's a case of reverse psychology.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reverse psychology” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He's clearly trying to reverse psychology me into going to the party.
American English
- Don't try to reverse psychology me; I know you want the last cookie.
adverb
British English
- He suggested, almost reverse psychologically, that I shouldn't bother applying.
American English
- She argued reverse psychologically for us to stay home.
adjective
British English
- It was a classic reverse psychology move.
American English
- Her reverse psychology tactic backfired completely.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used formally; might appear in discussions about sales tactics or negotiation strategies.
Academic
Used in psychology and communication studies, often within quotes or informal description.
Everyday
Common in discussions about parenting, relationships, and persuasion.
Technical
Not a formal technical term in psychology; related to concepts like 'reactance theory' and 'paradoxical intervention'.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “reverse psychology”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “reverse psychology”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reverse psychology”
- Using it to mean simply 'changing your mind' or 'rethinking'. It is an active persuasion technique, not a passive reconsideration.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Sarcasm involves saying the opposite to mock or insult. Reverse psychology is a strategic attempt to influence behavior, not necessarily to mock.
Yes, especially if the other person recognizes the tactic, which can lead to resentment or them deliberately choosing the opposite action out of spite.
No, it's a popular term. The closest formal concepts are 'reactance theory' and 'paradoxical intervention' in therapy.
It depends on context. In playful or parenting situations it may be benign, but in relationships or business it can be seen as manipulative and erode trust.
A persuasion technique where you advocate for the opposite of what you actually want, expecting the person will then choose the desired outcome.
Reverse psychology: in British English it is pronounced /rɪˌvɜːs saɪˈkɒlədʒi/, and in American English it is pronounced /rɪˌvɜːrs saɪˈkɑːlədʒi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's a Jedi mind trick.”
- “You have to be contrary to get your way.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think REVERSE: You REVERSE your request to get the VERSE (direction) you actually want.
Conceptual Metaphor
PERSUASION IS A GAME OF OPPOSITES.
Practice
Quiz
In which scenario is someone most likely using reverse psychology?