Crybabies & Wannabes: How to Deal With Attention Seekers and Emotional Manipulators
Crybabies and wannabes—they’re the type of people who always crave the spotlight. Sometimes, they’ll go out of their way to make others feel bad, all in a bid to feel better about themselves. It might start off as light teasing or a joke, but for the person on the receiving end, it can easily cross into bullying territory.
Whether they’re starstruck, mocking others for fun, or just being pesty, their behavior can be toxic. If you feel targeted or emotionally drained by these individuals, here are three powerful ways to handle them effectively.
1. Understand the Source of Their Behavior
Before you react, understand one simple truth: people who hurt others are often hurting themselves.
Attention seekers may be masking their own pain or insecurity. Rather than face their own sadness or emptiness, they redirect that energy onto others. The person teasing or taunting you might be struggling internally—and their behavior, while not acceptable, is a reflection of that inner turmoil.
Pro Tip: Don’t internalize their words. It’s more about them than it is about you.
2. Don’t Take It Personally
Wannabes and bullies thrive on reaction. The moment you take their jabs to heart, they win.
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Stay composed and confident—even if you don’t feel it.
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Recognize that their comments often have no truth to them.
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Avoid letting their energy pull you into emotional chaos.
We all go through stages where we crave acceptance. But know that real friends won’t tear you down to feel bigger. If someone constantly jokes at your expense, they’re not a friend—they’re a distraction.
Shield your peace. What they say does not define who you are.
3. Disarm Them with Humor or Silence
The quickest way to defuse a teasing moment? Laugh it off or say nothing.
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Laughing shows that you’re not emotionally shaken—it confuses the wannabe’s strategy.
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Silence, on the other hand, sends a message that you won’t play the game.
Try not to get defensive or angry. Arguments only add fuel to their fire and validate their behavior. Changing your reaction changes the outcome.
“Don’t feed the troll.” If they get no reaction, the mockery eventually dies.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not About You
Teasing may be part of life, but when it crosses the line, it’s important to stay grounded. Remember:
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You don’t owe anyone your energy.
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Their opinion isn’t your reality.
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Confidence, composure, and clever disengagement are your best tools.
With these 3 tips, you can reclaim your peace, hold onto your self-worth, and leave the drama for those who need it most—the wannabes and the crybabies.