Roopa Banerjee

Reverse psychology is a strategy that involves encouraging someone to do the opposite of what is wanted; often resulting in them doing what was originally intended. Did you know that reverse psychology is an oft-used literary device in fiction writing? It enables authors to manipulate characters and advance plotlines.

The term ‘reverse psychology’ emerged in the field of behavioural psychology in the mid-20th century. It is rooted in the idea of manipulating human behaviour by presenting a reverse motivation or suggestion. The prefix ‘reverse’ denotes a reversal or opposite action, while ‘psychology’ refers to the study of mind and behaviour.

In literature, authors often use reverse psychology to add complexity to characters and drive storylines. A classic example is Othello by William Shakespeare. The villainous character Iago uses reverse psychology to manipulate Othello into believing that his wife, Desdemona, is unfaithful. By pretending to downplay the significance of Desdemona’s alleged infidelity, Iago plants seeds of doubt in Othello’s mind, leading to tragic consequences.

Another interesting example of reverse psychology in literature is George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984. In the novel’s authoritarian society, the government employs reverse psychology to control its citizens. By presenting contradictory information and encouraging doublethink, the Party manipulates citizens into accepting its oppressive rule. The Party’s slogan, ‘War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, Ignorance is Strength,’ shows the use of reverse psychology to distort reality and retain power by confusing the populace.

In the novel Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, Huck Finn uses reverse psychology to navigate several situations. For instance, when he wants to convince others to do something, he often pretends to discourage it, knowing that they will be more likely to comply if they think it is their idea.

In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, when Mr. Darcy proposes to Elizabeth Bennet, he uses reverse psychology by highlighting all the reasons why their match would be improper. He mentions Elizabeth’s lower social status and her family’s lack of propriety as reasons why he should not propose. However, this makes Elizabeth more determined to reject his reasoning.

In popular culture, reverse psychology is frequently employed in films and television shows. A notable example is the Hollywood film Inception directed by Christopher Nolan. The main protagonist Dom Cobb uses reverse psychology to plant an idea in the mind of his target by convincing him not to perform a specific action. By framing the suggestion as an act of defiance against authority, Cobb exploits the target’s subconscious resistance and successfully manipulates his behaviour.

Another instance is provided in the television series Breaking Bad. In a memorable episode, Walter White employs reverse psychology to manipulate his brother-in-law, Hank Schrader, a DEA agent. Walter feigns ignorance and downplays his involvement in illegal activities to effectively deflect suspicion and casts doubt on Hank’s investigative process.

In literature and popular culture, reverse psychology serves as a compelling narrative device that adds depth to characters, drives plot twists, and explores themes of manipulation and control. Whether used by Shakespearean villains or modern-day anti-heroes, reverse psychology continues to captivate audiences with its intricate interplay of deception and human psychology.

Exercise
Here are five books written by women authors who use reverse psychology effectively. Name the authors.

Books
1. Gone Girl
2. Alias Grace
3. We have Always Lived in the Castle
4. Emma
5. My Brilliant Friend

Authors
1. Gillian Flynn
2. Margaret Atwood
3. Shirley Jackson
4. Jane Austen
5. Elena Ferrante

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